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1862-18 6 5 

OF 



Charlej? H. Lynch, i8tk Consu ¥0!'! 



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Charles H. Lynch 
1862 



The Civil War Diary 

1862-1865 



OF 



Charles H. Lynch, i8th Conn. Vol's. 






Privately printed 
1915 



C!ft 

Author 



The Case, l.ockivood &> Bramard Co., 
Hartford, Conn. 



DURING the spring and summer of 1862 the war 
fever was running very high. Great excite- 
ment prevailed. Darkness and gloom seemed 
to cover the country. Men were urged to enlist, go to 
the war, and help save the country. It was preached 
from the pulpits, printed by the press, talked about at 
great war meetings that were held by day and nights. 
Business at times was suspended. Drums and fifes were 
heard continuously being paraded through the streets and 
followed by men and boys. Churches were open in 
country towns, giving men an opportunity to enlist. 

Mr. Isaac H. Bromley, City Editor of the Norwich 
Morning Bulletin, at a great war meeting held at 
Breed's Hall, had enlisted to go to the war. He came 
out with a card in the Bulletin asking one hundred 
young men to go with him and organize a company for 
the 1 8th Regiment that was forming at the time. 

On the evening of August 6th, 1862, I visited the 
recruiting office with my mind fully made up to enlist 
for the war and go in Bromley's company. 

On the 1 2th the members were requested to meet at 
the recruiting office at i P. M. to form company and 
march to the fair grounds where camp had been located. 
Distance about two miles. At 2 P. M. with drum and 
fife we began our march to the camp. Cheers greeted 
us all along the line of march. 

The camp was known as Camp Aiken, so named in 
honor of General Aiken, son-in-law of Connecticut's war 

5 



Governor, William A. Buckingham. At camp we were 
assigned two rows of tents, mattresses and army blankets 
included. After the medical examination, uniforms 
were given to us. Then began the life of a real soldier, 
learning how to march and drill and also doing guard 
duty. 

A meeting of the company was called to elect officers. 
Isaac H. Bromley was elected Captain, Samuel T. C. 
Merwin, a lawyer, ist Lieutenant, Henry F. Cowles, 
2nd Lieutenant. In due time we were selected as color 
company, also known as Company C. It was considered 
a very great honor to be the color company of a regi- 
ment. With cheers and congratulations we pledged our- 
selves to be true and to carry the flags with honor. We 
are now getting the new experience of a soldier's life in 

camp. 

August 17th. Sunday in camp. Most of the mem- 
bers of the regiment were allowed to leave camp and 
visit homes and the city. It would be our last Sunday 
in the state. I was detailed for guard duty and could 
not leave camp. Many visitors in camp during the day. 
I was on duty two hours and off four during the day and 

night. 

August l8th. Monday. Regiment mustered into 
the United States service, William G. Ely, Colonel, hav- 
ing been promoted from Lieutenant-Colonel of the 6th 
Connecticut Regiment. A resident of Norwich. The 
remaining days in camp brought many visitors and 
peddlers. Those were sad and very exciting days while 
we were preparing for the life of a soldier. The weather 
hot and dry in camp. 

August 22d. Friday. Early this morning great 
crowds began to arrive in camp as we were to leave for 



the war. About lo A. M. a large delegation of Nor- 
wich ladies came into camp with fine flags, National and 
State, which they presented to the regiment, Governor 
Buckingham making the presentation for the ladies 
from whom the flags came. The flags were received by 
Colonel Ely and then turned over to the color-sergeants 
who had been selected to carry them. Then assigned to 
Company C, our company. This event over, the regi- 
ment broke ranks. 

About 3 P. M. the regiment broke camp, formed in 
line, and began our march to the city. Business was sus- 
pended. Great crowds lined the streets as the regiment 
marched along. Near five hundred young men from 
Norwich were in the regiment, leaving home for the life 
of a soldier in the great war. It was a very sad day in 
old Norwich. The boys marched on, going on board 
the large, fine steamer City of Boston, of the New York 
and New London Line. Many sad farewells as we 
marched on board the boat. The Norwich Brass Band 
volunteered its services as far as New York. About 7 
P. M. the boat left the dock, going slowly down the 
Thames River. The music by the band, cheering by the 
people, roaring of cannons, and the great crowds made 
a scene that could not be forgotten. As the steamer 
rounded a bend in the river our view of Norwich was 
cut off and the shades of night were coming on. The 
lights of New London began to show up. Passing on, 
the steamer was soon out into Long Island Sound. 

August 2jd. Very little sleep on board the boat 
last night. Passing around New York the boat landed 
at Pier No. 2, North River, at about 6 A. M. The trans- 
port steamer Kill-von-KuU was at the pier waiting for 
us. Marched across the pier on board to the music of 

7 



the band. When all were on board the Kill-von-Kull, 
the City of Boston sailed away and with it the band. 
The last tune we heard the band play was " The Girl I 
Left Behind Me," and the strains in the distance com- 
ing across the water to us were " Home, Sweet Home." 

The Kill-von-Kull soon got under way. Reported 
that we were going to Elizabethport, N. J. It proved 
to be a very pleasant trip. The weather fine. We were 
saluted by passing boats and the people along the shores. 
Late in the day we arrived in Elizabethport, safe and 
sound. We found a long train of cars waiting for us. 
All railroad lines leading to Washington were crowded 
with troops hurrying on in response to the President's 
call for three hundred thousand more men. 

August 24th. Sunday. It was after eight o'clock 
last night before the train got under way. At midnight 
we passed through Harrisburg, Penn. The night very 
dark. Did not get much sleep. A slow, tiresome jour- 
ney. Passed through York, on over the state line into 
Maryland. Soldiers are on guard along the railroad. 
The train moved along very slowly, making many stops. 
About noon-time arrived in Baltimore. The regiment 
soon formed in line and marched through the city, stop- 
ping at the Soldier's Rest on Camden Street, where 
dinner was served, bread, salt-beef, and coffee. Then 
waited for transportation to Washington. Late in the 
day orders were received to report at Fort McHenry for 
duty, and relieve the 48th New York Regiment. A 
march of four miles. That put our regiment in the 8th 
Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, General John E. 
Wool, Commander, Brigadier N. W. Morris, com- 
manding the fort. 



August 2^th. After a short drill by officers of the 
48th Regiment, I was detailed for guard duty. A large 
number of Confederate prisoners were confined in one 
of the old buildings near which I was posted. That kind 
of duty I did not like. It had to be done. 

The fort was located on a point of land extending 
out into the Patapsco Bay. A high stone wall from water 
to water enclosed it. Company drill during the fore- 
noon, battalion drill and dress parade in the afternoon, 
and all other duties incident to camp life had to be done 
as each day came along. By our stopping at the fort 
we escaped the battle of Antietam, at which time we had 
to do extra duty and be ready to march at any time, if 
wanted. 

September 1st. The fort was historic ground. The 
flag flying over it caused Mr. Key to write the song 
"The Star-spangled Banner," in 1814. Many British 
shells and solid shot were piled up in the fort as relics. 
After the battle of Antietam many rebel prisoners were 
brought to the fort to remain as prisoners of war until 
exchanged. Sympathetic friends from Baltimore were 
allowed to visit them giving them supplies and en- 
couragement. 

A camp for sick and wounded Union soldiers was 
located in the enclosure. No notice was taken of them. 
That was more than the Connecticut boys could stand 
for. A raid was made on the Baltimoreans, they were 
run out of the fort, the supplies confiscated and given to 
the disabled Union soldiers who were in need of some 
comforts. Fort McHenry was like being in prison. We 
were not allowed outside of the walls. We had quite a 
number of callers from Connecticut. They were always 



welcome. Citizens were allowed passes to enter the 
grounds. 

October 1st. I was detailed with twenty members of 
our company under the command of Lieutenant Merwin 
to take boats and to row to a long bridge over a branch 
of the Patapsco River, there to remain on guard duty 
for ten days. It was about eight miles from the fort. It 
proved to be a picnic for us. Our duty was to guard the 
bridge. When off duty we tramped through the country 
for miles. It was a fine fruit section of Maryland. We 
bathed in the fine, clear salt water and white sandy 
beach. The ten days passed quickly when we were re- 
lieved and obliged to report to our company at the old 
fort, when we resumed our duty of various kinds, drill- 
ing and guard duty, also keeping the camp clean. 

Our rations remained the same from day to day, 
fresh beef, salt beef, pork, hard-tack, and soft bread. 
Our supper remained the same every night, a cup of 
black coffee, a plate of boiled rice with very black 
molasses, called by the boys coal tar, two slices of soft 
bread. We became so tired of rice that we could not 
eat it. 

October 2Qth. Marching orders received. Our last 
day and night at Fort McHenry. Great rejoicing over 
the prospect of leaving the old place. Packing up and 
getting ready for an early start on the morrow. Singing 
and very happy in camp. 

October JOth. Camp fires were kept burning very 
late last night. The boys are singing, dancing, making 
speeches, and having a very merry old time. All seem 
happy. This morning the regiment formed in line for 
our march out of the old fort. When outside of the walls 
cheering began as the happy boys went marching on. 

10 



The regiment made a fine appearance as they marched 
through Baltimore. Every man seemed to be trying to 
do his best. Stopping for a rest in one of the streets, a 
grocer treated us to apples. Citizens cheered us as we 
marched along. Passed through Baltimore on out to 
the east side, going into camp near Fort Marshall on 
Snake Hill. Camp being established it was named 
Emory in honor of the General. Seven companies sent 
out for guard duty along the Baltimore & Philadelphia 
Railroad. Bridges had been set on fire at times. There 
was much sympathy for the South in Maryland. Com- 
panies A, B, and C remained in camp. Regimental 
headquarters a pleasant location for a camp. Guard 
duty, drilling, dress parade, with an occasional tramp 
through the country on skirmish drill was about the 
daily routine of duty, weather permitting. One of the 
very pleasant things about camp life was the writing and 
receiving of letters. 

Our duty at Camp Emory was not very laborious. 
Allowed to visit the city quite often on passes. After 
Sunday morning inspection no more duty required of us 
until dress parade. Guard duty must be done all the 
time. 

November. The most important event was our first 
Thanksgiving in camp. Passed very pleasantly. A 
good dinner, with games of foot and base-ball. The 
day closing with dress parade. Many visitors from 
Baltimore and some from Connecticut. The weather 
during November was very fine for camp life. Barracks 
were built for winter quarters to take the place of tents. 

December. Much cold rain and snow-storms. 
Near our camp was a great neighborhood for pigs. They 
were allowed to roam about, running through our camp. 

11 



Colonel warned the people to keep them out. It did 
no good. Colonel shot one, wounding it. Members of 
our company captured and dressed it. Company C had 
fresh pork for dinner. The owner tried to collect pay. 
The Colonel promised if the pigs were kept out of camp 
for two weeks he would pay. In less than three days the 
pigs were in camp again. 

The routine for each day. Roll call at 6 A. M. 
Breakfast at 7. Guard mount, 8.30. Company drill. 9 
to II. Dinner, 12. Battalion drill, 2 to 4. Clean up for 
dress parade at 5 P. M. Supper at 6. Roll-call, 9. 
Taps, 9.30. On guard duty every other day and night. 
Much sympathy in this vicinity for the South. Rail- 
roads are kept well guarded. 

December JOth. Marching orders. Reported the 
rebel cavalry leader J. E. B. Stuart about to raid into 
Maryland along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The 
three companies of our regiment and other troops here 
are suddenly ordered out on the line of the B. & O. R. R. 
Left camp tonight in a warm rain storm. 

December Jlst. We passed a very uncomfortable 
night in old dirty box cars. After a ride of sixty miles 
we reached a station known as Monrovia very early in 
the morning, just before daylight. Pickets were soon 
posted on the roads crossing the railroad. A sharp look- 
out was kept. After daylight we took possession of a 
small Quaker church and sheds for our quarters. We 
were obliged to, as we did not have any tents. Started 
off in light marching order. Most of the inhabitants 
were Quakers, very fine people. Kind to us. The warm 
rain turned to snow with freezing weather, making us 
feel very uncomfortable for picket duty. 



12 



i863 

January 1st. When off picket duty try to keep com- 
fortable by the picket fires and chopping wood for the 
large camp fire just outside the church. No place in 
the church for fires. 

January 2d. Late last night, our second night out, 
pickets began firing. We were called out and soon had 
line formed. The supposed enemy proved to be Union 
scouts with orders for the Colonel to return to Balti- 
more. The enemy did not come into Maryland. The 
command was complimented for the way it turned out 
into line ready for duty. This morning, in line by the 
railroad waiting for the train. After a long wait in the 
cold the dirty train of box cars came along which we soon 
boarded. On to Baltimore. Arriving in the city, ordered 
to the west end, going into camp in Stuart's woods. A 
surprise and disappointment as we expected to return to 
Camp Emory, our good quarters, in good warm barracks. 
Many disappointments come to soldiers. 

In our camp was located Battery L, 5th U. S. Regu- 
lars. The battery boys did not like being inside the 
guard line of volunteers. Would run the guard line, 
making trouble for us. A sergeant of the battery, under 
the influence of drink, attempted to run the guard. Was 
halted, grabbed the sentinel's musket, resulted in the ser- 
geant's being badly wounded. The wooden plug in the 
muzzle, with the bullet, passed through the sergeant's 
body. He was not killed. (After a time he recovered.) 
After that event the battery boys and the i8th Regiment 
were friends. All were sorry over the event. No one 
blamed the sentinel. Cold rain and snow making the 
life of a soldier a very disagreeable one in tents, sleep- 

13 



ing on the ground. Deep mud and very sticky all 
through our camp. 

January 6th. Last night, while on guard duty, I was 
taken suddenly ill. Had to be relieved from duty. 
Placed in an old barn, used for a field hospital, with a 
leaky old roof, the rain coming down on me. Colonel, 
I was informed, came to the barn, saw my condition, 
ordered me carried to a general hospital known as 
Stuart's Mansion, afterward named the Jarvis Hospital, 
at the west end of Baltimore. At the hospital I was ex- 
amined by a surgeon who pronounced my illness typhoid 
fever and the pleurisy. I was placed in Ward 4. I was 
very ill. My side was cupped for the pleurisy. Re- 
ceived good care from the nurses, one woman and four 
men, two by day and night. My comrades of Company 
C called on me quite often until the company was 
ordered to Fort Marshall at the east end of Baltimore, 
about five miles from the Hospital. In good quarters. 
All were very sorry I could not be with them. While in 
the hospital the officers of the company called on me. I 
also received a call from our good Governor Bucking- 
ham. Promised friends at home that he would call on 
me, see that I was having good care. His home was in 
Norwich. 

I told the Governor that I had no fault to find and 
for him to tell the folks at home that I was receiving 
good care. Also received calls from Mrs. Henry Bing- 
ham, the wife of a comrade of our company and an old 
friend at home. Comrade Bingham was very ill in the 
same hospital with me. On the wall, at the head of our 
beds, was a card with our name, company, and regiment. 
The loyal people of Baltimore often visited the hospital, 
furnishing entertainment for the patients in songs and 

14 



recitations. Was very much enjoyed and appreciated as 
the time dragged slowly along. 

April. Having been an inmate in the hospital for 
three months, at my own request, I was allowed to join 
my company, located at Fort Marshall, east end of Bal- 
timore. Reported to Lieutenant Merwin, commanding 
company. He would not allow me to go on duty. 
Wished me to remain at Regimental Hospital for a 
while until I could get stronger. 

April 2gth. Our company was ordered for guard 
duty to guard the railroad bridge over the Gunpowder 
River, on the Baltimore & Philadelphia Road. A very 
pleasant change and much enjoyed in the fine early 
spring weather. The fishing and sailing were ^ne. 
Many boats at that point we were allowed to use. Many 
attempts had been made to burn the bridge. It had to be 
kept well guarded. (It was later destroyed by rebel 
guerillas making a raid through Maryland.) 

May 20th, We remained here until this date hav- 
ing the finest of times, when orders were received to pack 
up and report to the regiment at Fort Marshall. Orders 
having been received for the regiment to report to Gen- 
eral Robert H. Milroy at Winchester, Virginia. 

May 22d. We bid farewell to Fort Marshall and 
Baltimore. Marched across the city to the Camden 
Street railway station, Baltimore and Ohio R. R. After 
a long wait a train of box cars ready to receive us, into 
which we were packed and started on our journey. A 
slow tiresome ride in the old cars. 

May 2^d. After an uneventful ride we arrived at 
Sandy Hook at four o'clock this morning, getting our 
first view of the Potomac River. Orders received to turn 
out and form in line for a march. The road was along 

15 



the side of the Ohio and Chesapeake Canal, under the 
Maryland Heights. The march continued on over the 
iron railroad bridge crossing the Potomac River into 
Harper's Ferry. Here we first put foot on what was 
called the sacred soil of Virginia. Harper's Ferry was 
historical ground. Here John Brown started an insur- 
rection to liberate the slaves. Our march through the 
town was by way of Shenandoah Street, then by file 
left into a large open lot in town. Here we prepared our 
breakfast. Later we were allowed to visit the town and 
the points of interest. The old brick fire-engine house, 
known as John Brown's Fort was one of the points of 
interest. Saw where the bricks had been knocked out for 
port-holes to fire through. A government arsenal had 
been located here. Destroyed by the rebels, only the old 
walls remained standing. Some severe fighting had 
taken place in this side hill town. At 5 P. M. we left 
the town on the march for Winchester. After a march 
of eight miles camped for the night in woods. Not be- 
ing strong, after my illness, I was obliged to fall out by 
the roadside. Lieutenant Merwin wished me to return 
to the hospital. I answered no, I would rather die in 
the field, I wanted to stay with the boys. The Lieuten- 
ant was very kind to me, he taking my knapsack and the 
boys my equipment. After a short rest and a bath in a 
brook I was able to follow on, finding the regiment in 
camp for the night near Charlestown. 

May 24th. After a night's rest and breakfast I was 
very much improved, taking my place in the company. 
We left the camp at 6 A. M. Sunday morning with 
drums and fifes, to the tune of Old John Brown, which 
was kept up until we passed through the town. In this 
town John Brown had been tried and hung, which event 

16 



had become history. The town was pleasantly located 
but showed the effects of the war by its ruined buildings. 
The scenery was fine looking up the valley. The march 
continued on towards Berryville, a hot dusty one. It 
caused many of the boys to fall out by the roadside. 
After a march of about ten miles we camped for the 
night near Berryville. 

May 2^th. Again on the march after an early 
breakfast. Marched in good order through the town, by 
music of the drum corps. The town is an old Virginia 
one. Many old buildings, some showing the effects of 
the war. Reaching the center of town, filed to the right, 
going west, on the Winchester Pike. On the march we 
were obliged to ford three small rivers, or creeks, as the 
natives called them. Passed a number of large mansions. 
Many small outhouses, the homes of slaves in prosper- 
ous times. We surely are now in the enemy's country. 
In conversation with the natives we would try and keep 
them talking, on account of their peculiar dialect. We 
never could find out how far it was to the next town, in 
miles. The answer would be " Right smart aways, I 
reckon." After a tiresome march we reached the town 
of Winchester late in the afternoon. After a halt in the 
town for a while, until the Colonel could report to the 
Commander, General Milroy, we again were on the 
march, out the south side of the town, to locate camp 
about two miles from town. 

On the Front Royal Pike at the Shawnee Springs. A 
fine supply of good cold water. The location was fine 
and the camp was known as Camp Shawnee. Severe 
duty began right away. Picket, scouting through the 
country, working on the fort and rifle pits, with axe, pick, 
and shovel. The large fort was known as the Star Fort. 

2 17 



Many of the boys had never used or handled that kind of 
tools. It was hard work. After a hard day's work came 
the march back to camp, a distance of about four miles. 
Then clean up and get something to eat. Various duty 
came to us each day. Made out to get some pleasure out 
of the life of a soldier as the days passed by. 

May JOth. The regiment, with cavalry escort, 
ordered up the valley. After a march of ten miles came 
to a halt at Newtown. Muskets stacked along the main 
street. The cavalry continued to advance with flag of 
truce. After a few hours' wait the cavalry returned 
and with them were some poor people who were ordered 
out of the rebel lines. They were Union people, mostly 
women and children. They were nearly famished and 
were known as refugees. Their faces brightened up 
when they saw us and the flags. We divided our rations 
with them and made coffee for them. We guarded them 
back to Winchester. Later on they were sent North. 
Not very much change in our line of duty from day to 
day. Scouting, picket duty, working on the forts and 
rifle pits which kept us very busy. 

June nth. Orders received to prepare for three 
days' scouting up the valley. A sharp lookout must be 
kept for the enemy through the valley and the mountain 
passes. Tonight we have three days' rations all prepared 
for an early start on the morrow. 

June I2th. All is ready for our scouting trip, 
rations, with a good supply of ammunition, and equip- 
ment all in good condition. Tonight finds us still in 
camp, ready to start. 

June IJth. Turned out very early this morning. 
Waiting for orders to march. While waiting for orders 
our cavalry scouts are coming in, reporting the enemy 

18 



coming down the valley in force. Somewhat of a sur- 
prise, they having come through the mountain passes in 
the night, making a forced march. While near the 
Colonel's quarters I saw a scout coming, almost flying, 
down the pike. Jumped his horse over a stone fence that 
surrounded our camp. Headed straight for the Colo- 
nel's tent. Without any ceremony rushed in, informed 
the Colonel the enemy was almost upon us. I ran to 
the Colonel's quarters and heard the report. With a 
shout the Colonel called out " Fall in, fall in, double 
quick." We soon formed in line, ready for orders. Left 
our camp on double quick time to meet the enemy. They 
opened fire on us and our camp with a battery well 
posted on a high hill about one mile from our camp. 
We held them in check for a while when orders came 
for us to fall back and take position in the line of battle 
that had been formed near the town. In the meantime 
the enemy had taken possession of our camp with all its 
equipage and our knapsacks that contained all our be- 
longings, making a great loss to every man. The sudden 
appearance of so large a force was a surprise. We were 
under fire all day and were obliged to change our posi- 
tion at different points to meet the enemy, who were try- 
ing to get into Winchester. It was plainly seen that a 
large force of Confederates were surrounding the town 
and that we were in a bad fix, as we could see the gray in 
all directions and knew that we were more than out- 
numbered. 

June 14th. Last night our position was changed 
from the south to the east side of the town, on the Berry- 
ville road. The night was a very dark, stormy one, with 
severe lightning and thunder. We were wet through. 
Not allowed fires as it might draw the enemy's fire. 

19 



Passed a very uncomfortable night. This mornmg, at 
daylight, our position was again changed, extending our 
lines further towards the north, under fire from the 
enemy as we attempted to enter the nfle pits. In the 
movement Lieutenant Merwin commandmg our com- 
pany was wounded in the foot. 

The enemy had possession of a large brick house a 
short distance' in front of our position in the pits Iheir 
sharpshooters made it hot for us. A charge on the house 
was ordered. The enemy ran, but we captured a few 
prisoners. Later in the day the rebs again took posses- 
sion of the house making it hot for us in the pits. We 
had to lie low or zip would come a bullet, and at times 
many of them. Colonel ordered a section of a battery. 
Two guns putting a few shells through the house, the 
enemv left it. No more trouble came from that point, 
Ae house was ruined. About 6 P. M. General Milroy 
called in all his forces and formed them around the 
Star Fort, the largest fort. A fierce battle came on. It 
was a hot place. The roaring of the big guns, explosion 
of shells, rattling of musketry, was something fearful 
The charging of both sides was hot work. We drove 
the enemy back and they also forced our lines back. 
Darkness put an end to the carnage and I had passed 
through the battle unharmed. The end of the second 
day The casualties were great as I could not help 
seeing. It gave me an opportunity to see what a horrible 
thing war really was. We were fighting Jackson s old 
corps, now commanded by General Ewell, reported to 
number forty thousand. 

June 15th. Last night we were under arms, ready 
for a call to duty at any moment. Prisoners report that 
Ewell has about forty thousand men with eighty cannon 

20 



under his command. While in the fort waiting for 
orders we talked over the events that might happen when 
daylight came. About 2 A. M. we silently marched 
out of the Star Fort to the Martinsburg Pike. The 
movement was very slow which kept us guessing, won- 
dering what was in store for us. When out on the road 
about four miles, just at break of day, at Carter's Farm, 
near Summit station on the Harper's Ferry & Winches- 
ter Railroad, the enemy opened a fierce fire upon us. The 
cavalry were to the right of us, marching in fours or 
parallel to the infantry lines. They broke and ran 
through our lines, causing much confusion. While we 
were re-forming, the enemy kept up a severe fire on us. 
They were well posted across a deep railroad cut. A 
case of ambush, waiting in the dark for us, having a 
good range of the pike. Our regiment soon had line 
formed, with the 5th Maryland on our left. Ordered 
to charge on the battery which the enemy had well 
posted and supported. Charging through the woods and 
the severe firing of the enemy, our lines became broken, 
when we were ordered to fall back and re-form. The 
second charge in the woods on the battery. We were 
again ordered to fall back and re-form. The i8th Con- 
necticut was now the only regiment left on the field with 
General Milroy. After a short drill by our Colonel, 
under fire all the time, I heard him report to the General 
that he was now ready for orders. Our company, C, being 
center and color company, the Colonel's position was right 
in our rear, so that we heard all his orders, even in battle. 
The Lieutenant-Colonel and the Major were on the right 
and left of the regiment to repeat orders. The i8th Con- 
necticut Regiment made the third and last charge un-sup- 
ported, all others having left the field. We held the 

enemy in check until the General, his stafif, and escort, 

21 



left the field guided by scouts through fields, on to 
Harpe 's F r;y' That was a hot fight in that early June 
morning. The cannon and musketry firing was a grand 
Td awful sight to us young fejlows, who were gettmg 
our first lessons in a real battle, a hard one and agamst 

'"Comtg out of the woods after the third and final 
charge, our Major Peale directed us to go to the r>ght 
and ge away. I followed his orders. For some reason 
best known L himself, the Colonel ordered a halt and 
iturrender to the enemy, when he and be^-^;- 
and five hundred were made prisoners. Major Peale 
and between two and three hundred got away. I was 
one of those who followed the Major and reached 
Harper's Ferry after a long and tedious march, lired 
fnd 'dtscouragJd, we dropped to the ground or res^and 
sleep Our regiment was badly broken up. Many 
kiled wounded and prisoners. The trials of the past 
f w days were something fearful to endure^ It was won^ 
derful that we came out as well as we did. Short of 
rations sleeping on the ground. Cool nights follow the 
ho days On the march through Charlestown. Saw the 
Contderate cavalry on the BerryviUe Pike. In ca^e of 
an attack we are ready. While marching on to H 1- 
town a force of cavalry came to meet us from Harper s 
Ferrv Stopped for the night on Bolivar Heights. 

In the battle I lost my pocket-book, containing over 
five dollars with gold pen and silver Pen-ho'den VV e 
were obliged to fill our pockets with cartridges. As they 
were loose we used them first, so must have pulled my 
pocket-book out in the excitement. 

Junel6th. Up very early this morning. Al Ma,°r 
Peale could muster of the .8th Regiment was only thn ty 
members. The rest of those who escaped were with 



Captain Matthewson, they taking a different route from 
Major Peale who followed the route taken by General 
Milroy. 

After breakfast of hardtack and coffee, the Major 
marched us on through Harper's Ferry, crossing the 
Potomac River on a pontoon bridge. On, up Maryland 
Heights, halting under low pine trees, well up to the 
top of the Heights. Here we were allowed to remain 
for rest and sleep. General Dan Tyler, a Connecticut 
man, was in command of a large force at this point. 
From the top of the Heights we could see the enemy 
crossing the Potomac River at Williamsport into Mary- 
land. Our detachment was detailed for headquarters 
guard at the quarters of General Tyler. The duty was 
easy and made very interesting about all the time. 

June 20th. Scouts brought in many prisoners. All 
were obliged to report to the General at headquarters. 
I very often heard the conversation. One question 
always asked. " Whose command do you belong to? " 
While on duty at the General's headquarters we received 
a call from two citizens from our home town, Norwich, 
Dr. Charles M. Carleton and Henry H. Starkweather. 
Came to learn all the particulars about our regiment's 
part in the three days' battle at Winchester. There was 
much excitement at home over the results. A full report 
had not been received. The casualties at this time were 
not really known. We were questioned as to what we 
knew about the disaster that had overtaken our regiment. 
Those of us who escaped received many letters from 
home asking for information about members of the regi- 
ment. At this time the regiment was well scattered, 
prisoners, a detachment reported at Hancock, Md,, and 



ours at Marvland Heights. 



23 



June 24th. Orders received from General Hooker 
to evacuate the Maryland Heights. All supplies and 
munitions that could be moved loaded on canal boats and 
taken to Washington by way of the Ohio & Chesapeake 
Canal. Great quantity of stores was left, salt beef, pork, 
beans, rice, cofifee, and sugar. Some of it was gathered 
up by people from Harper's Ferry. A guard was sent 
with the boats but most of the troops were ordered to 
join the Army of the Potomac on its march up through 
Maryland to meet the Confederates who seem to be 
pushing on up into Pennsylvania. Our detachment was 
sent on guard with the canal boats. We left on the last 
two boats. There were about thirty in all. The rebels, 
under the cavalry leader J. E. B. Stuart, captured the 
first fifteen boats. After helping themselves to the sup- 
plies the boats were burned up. We passed the boats 
that had been destroyed. It took us two days and one 
night to complete the trip, a distance of sixty miles. 
Left the boats at Georgetown, then marched through the 
town to Tenallytown, going into camp. At the time our 
brigade consisted of the 12th West Virginia, the 5th 
Maryland, and our detachment. These regiments hav- 
ing been with us at Winchester and had lost many 
members. 

July Sth. Left camp very early this morning. A 
heavy downpour of rain. Passed through Georgetown, 
on through Washington. The mud in Pennsylvania 
Avenue was ankle deep. Marching very hard and dis- 
agreeable, so much so that we were obliged to take ofif 
our leggins and throw them away. Our first time in 
Washington. Boarded a train at the B. & O. R. R. 
station, going north. Nothing important taken place. 
At the Relay House, near Baltimore, train switched to 

24 



the west bound track. After a long tedious ride we 
reached the Monocacy Junction, thence to Frederick 
City, where we left the train and began a march out on 
the South Mountain Road, passing New York's crack 
regiment, the 7th, on picket duty. Stopped at the top of 
South Mountain. 

July yth. Near where General Reno fell, during the 
battle of Antietam. Passed down the west side of the 
mountain into the Antietam country, becoming a part 
of the 3d Corps, Army of the Potomac, General French 
commanding, taking part in the battle of Boonsborough, 
and supporting the cavalry at the battle of Falling 
Waters. Both armies are back in Maryland from the 
battle of Gettysburg. 

July lOth. Continual skirmishing going on with 
the rebs between Sharpsburg and Hagerstown, Mary- 
land. Reported that General Lee is trying to cross the 
Potomac River into Virginia. We are either skirmish- 
ing or changing our position most of the time so that we 
are kept on the go about all the time and most of the 
movements are at double quick time. The most impor- 
tant subject under discussion is, " Why doesn't Meade 
attack Lee?" as we have a number of regiments here 
who were not at Gettysburg, having come as re-inforce- 
ments. 

July 14th. General Lee and the rebel army have 
crossed the Potomac River into Virginia. I saw a num- 
ber of prisoners who were taken at the river. They in- 
formed us that we were too late, Lee was pushing up the 
valley. We are again on the march, going south, up and 
over the South Mountain. A hot, hard, dusty march as 
we go pushing along. A soldier's life in the field is a 
severe one. Came to a halt in the valley, near Sandy 

25 



Hook. The 2nd Corps passed. Met some of the 14th 
Connecticut as the corps came to a halt. I had friends 
in that regiment who I was anxious to see. One who 
I expected to meet was Walter Standish. I asked for 
him, was informed that he was killed at Gettysburg. 
Again on the march. Passed through the town of 
Sandy Hook, on over the Potomac into Harper's Ferry, 
crossing the Shenandoah River, up Loudon Heights, into 
the Loudon Valley, Virginia. Pushing right up the 
valley to guard the gaps in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

July igth. The enemy are marching up the Shenan- 
doah Valley. They seem to have the lead. Came to a 
halt at Snicker's Gap, twenty miles south of Harper's 
Ferry, after making a forced march. Here Major Peale 
received orders for us to report at Sharpsburg, Mary- 
land, where another detachment of our regiment was on 
duty. 

July 20th. We left Upperville, near Snicker's Gap. 
very early in the morning, having served in the 3d Corps, 
Army of the Potomac about five weeks. On the march 
back we met the 12th Corps, meeting the 5th and 20th 
Connecticut Regiments of that corps. Met Charlie 
Corey, a boyhood friend from my old home in Hanover, 
New London County. It was a short meeting but we 
talked fast. Charlie had been in service a little over 
two years in the 5th Regiment, while I had been in 
eleven months. His mother often read his letters to me 
before I came to be a soldier. A pleasant meeting for a 
few moments. On our backward march we kept push- 
ing along, stopping to rest at one point. Blackberries 
grew wild, we picked our coflfee cups full and ate them 
while we marched along. Nothing of special interest 
took place, but by the time we reached Harper's Ferry, 

26 



twenty miles march, we were tired and foot-sore. After 
a short rest and rations we were obliged to push on 
toward Sharpsburg, twenty miles further on. Darkness 
coming on we did not have the hot sun beating down 
upon us. The marching was over rough, stony roads, up 
hill and down. Reaching Sharpsburg along in the night, 
we learned the boys were in camp about two miles out of 
town, so we pushed on, reaching the camp at midnight, 
a march of about forty miles. The boys were sleeping, 
except the guard and the pickets. They did not know 
that we had arrived. We were glad to drop down on 
the ground and get sleep and rest after the severe march 
from Upperville, Virginia, to the town of Sharpsburg, 
Maryland. The command now numbered about two hun- 
dred. Consolidated into two companies. Our meeting 
was a very happy one. We talked over the events that had 
taken place during the past few weeks that we had been 
separated, and wondered how our boys in prison were 
getting along. 

July 24th. Marching orders. Broke camp. After 
a short march, go into camp on high ground near the 
Potomac River. Plenty of water here where we could 
bathe and wash our clothes, hang them on the bushes and 
wait for them to dry. We also used the river water to 
drink and make coffee. The current ran very swift at 
this point. 

(During my army life I drank, made coffee, fished, 
bathed, washed my clothes, waded through, its blue 
waters. When clear it was blue as one looked at it. 
When storms came it was yellow, the color of Virginia 
and Maryland mud.) 

We only enjoyed our camp near the Potomac for a 
few days, when marching orders were received, to report 

27 



at Hagerstown, Maryland, about ten miles from Sharps- 
burg, or about eight from our camp. At Hagerstown 
the Seminary and the grounds were used for a rebel 
prison and hospital, where we were to do guard and 
picket duty. Many of the poor fellows confined there 
died from wounds and disease. While the duty was not 
very laborious, it was not very pleasant. This is a fine 
section of Maryland, scenery fine. A large spring, 
walled in, in the center of the city, from which we ob- 
tained water. Quite a large number were confined here 
as prisoners of war. Here we also came in contact with 
an army of pedicules, which kept us very busy fighting 
them. Our boys claimed they bore on their backs the 
letters C. S. A., Confederate States America. The Sem- 
inary and grounds covered quite a tract of land. Our 
camp was placed as far as could be and still be on the 
grounds enclosed. 

August l^th. A field hospital and camp was estab- 
lished to the north on the Chambersburg road, about two 
miles from town. A fine location. Plenty of good, clear, 
running water. The change was not only good for us 
but very beneficial to all the prisoners, and they enjoyed 
it very much. Good air and grounds for them to walk 
about. A provost guard was on duty in town to preserve 
the peace and protect the town. We were on the alert 
all the time. Reports of cavalry raids from Virginia 
into Maryland caused us to turn out in the night and 
double the line of pickets on the road to Williamsport, 
near the ford crossing the Potomac. We have very 
pleasant recollections of Hagerstown. Nothing very 
serious happened while we were there. Some of the 
people were very strongly in sympathy with the South. 
The 4th Connecticut Regiment was at that town a year 

28 



before we were. They left a good impression there and 
were well spoken of by the people. We became well 
acquainted in Hagerstown and vicinity. We traded 
with farmers coffee, sugar, and hardtack, for eggs, butter, 
and vegetables. We lived well at that place. All things 
come to an end. Marching orders received. The pris- 
oners were ordered to be sent to Chambersburg, Penn. 
At this camp we conquered the army of the pedicules, 
and became free of the pest. 

September 2^th. Our regiment with supplies and 
munitions ordered to Martinsburg, West Virginia. Pack- 
ing up, getting ready to march. 

September 2'/th. Left Hagerstown, leaving a detail 
for provost duty in town. Marched through Williams- 
port, wading the Potomac, over into Virginia, pushing 
along in our wet clothes over very rough roads. After a 
march of about ten miles, we reached the town, going into 
camp on the west side. Here we erected our camp and 
began duty. Provost guard in town, picket, and guard 
duty, drilling, dress parade. When off duty, allowed to 
visit town on a pass from the company commander. 

October 1st. Our duty for Sunday, besides picket 
duty and guard, was Sunday morning inspection, attend 
church in town, weather permitting. The day's duty 
closed with dress parade. 

October lOth. Our boys who had been prisoners 
since the fifteenth of June, had been released and ex- 
changed. Lieutenant-Colonel Peale, commanding regi- 
ment, ordered to Camp Parole, Annapolis, Maryland, to 
bring the boys to camp for duty. A happy meeting talk- 
ing over our past experience. Guns and equipment given 
out. All were ready for duty. Drilling, picket, and 
scouting. The guerillas in the valley keeping us busy, 

29 



as they often raided the trains on the B. & O. R. R. 
Our boys made friends among the towns-people. Were 
made welcome in many homes. The town was considered 
a Union town. Many loyal people in it. 

No important events have taken place during the past 
few days. November coming in brought cold rain and 
snow, making mud. Reminded winter is coming on. 
Duty' must be done in all kinds of weather. Daily 
routine with its various duties must be performed as the 
days come and go. Looking forward to the coming of 
Thanksgiving, hoping it will pass pleasantly. 

November 2Sth. Thanksgiving Day. Weather fine. 
Our second one in the U. S. service. Some of the boys 
received boxes from home containing good things which 
they divided with others. Connecticut mince pies were 
all right. We had baked chicken prepared by a baker 
in town. Our Thanksgiving in camp passed very quiet 
and pleasant. Excused from all duty except picket and 
guard. These days are passing quietly, nothing extra so 
far to perform. Kept busy most of the time. 

December came in quite pleasant. Weather permit- 
ting, drilling is kept up. 

December 8th. Marching orders received. Must 
prepare three days' rations in haversacks. Ordered to 
Charlestown for duty. We are informed the cavalry 
under General Averill are to raid upon the enemy's 
country. The General is a dashing cavalry officer. He 

is all right. 

December lOth. Left camp early this mornmg. 
Passed through Martinsburg, going east, bound for 
Charlestown. Weather good. After a march of about 
eight miles, came to a halt at Leestown for rest and 
rations. Again on the march, forded the Opequan 

30 



Creek. Not very pleasant at this time of year. Soldiers 
must not stop for wet feet. Pushing on. After a march 
of about eighteen miles we reached the town of Charles- 
town, Virginia, eight miles south of Harper's Ferry, just 
after dark, tired. Took possession of an old church for 
our quarters, the weather growing colder. No place for 
a fire. Trying to make ourselves comfortable for the 
night. 

December Ilth. The morning opened up with a 
cold rain. I am detailed for picket duty. Posted on a 
back road, just south of the town. Took possession of an 
old building for the reliefs and the reserves, when off 
duty. Manage to keep very comfortable. All quiet. 

December I2th, Ofif picket. Cold rain continues, 
making life miserable. A large campfire near the 
church. When off duty do some scouting around the 
vicinity. The ist Connecticut Cavalry in camp near the 
town. Visited the cavalry boys at their camp. 

December 14th. On picket, which comes every 
other day and night. All things seem to be very quiet. 
Bought a watch. The first one I ever owned. Paid one 
of the boys ten dollars. Wrote many letters to friends at 
home. When off duty visited the many points of interest 
around the town. Here old John Brown was tried and 
hung for treason against the state of Virginia. I visited 
the court house where he was tried, the jail where he 
was confined, and the ground just outside of town where 
he was hung. These places were pointed out to us by old 
residents of the town. 

December IJth. A severe, cold storm, rain freezing 
on the ground and trees. The people in town say the 
Yankees brought the cold weather with them. Claim 
the weather is colder than it has been for years. Most of 

31 



the houses here not built very warm. The people suffer 
from the cold, have only wood fires. 

December 20th. Bitter cold. Out on picket last 
night on the Duffield road. Duffield is on the line of 
the B. & O. R. R. about eight miles from this town. 
Detailed to go out for wood. Teams going outside of 
camp must be kept well guarded, owing to bush- 
whackers and guerillas. While some of the boys cut 
wood, the guard must be on the alert. Keep up the large 
campfire in front of the church. Try to keep comfort- 
able. My tent mate at this time is Lem Manning. The 
guerillas know every path over the mountains and all 
fords in the Shenandoah River. 

December 22nd. Detailed with twenty under the 
command of Lieutenant John Lilley, Company I, for 
a night's scout and picket duty with four cavalry scouts 
from the ist New York (Lincoln) Cavalry. Left late 
this P. M., marching across lots through woods. Ordered 
to keep very quiet as we went marching on, so that 
our presence might not be known. After a march of 
between seven or eight miles we came to a small town 
called Cabletown, at a ford in the Shenandoah River. 
The cavalry boys were good scouts, on the alert, keeping 
our Lieutenant well posted as we advanced. We 
reached the town just after dark, as it began to snow. 
Pickets were soon posted at the ford. Our quarters were 
a wagon shop, where we kept very comfortable when 
ofif picket. A few citizens spent a part of the night with 
us. A good fire was kept burning in the stove all night. 

December 23d. All quiet through the night. This 
is known as a very loyal town. The Johnnies call it 
Little Massachusetts, so we were informed by the people, 
who were very kind to us. With daylight our duty 

32 



ended. We remained until noontime, when we left for 
Charlestown. Have been sorry that I did not keep the 
names of the cavalry scouts. The detail from our com- 
pany, C, Thomas A. Loomis, Lemuel A. Manning, 
Charles H. Lynch. Arrived at headquarters late this 
P. M. Tired. Pleased with the trip. Enjoyed scout- 
ing when everything went well. 

We are all the time watching the mountain passes 
and the fords. The guerillas know every foot of this 
country and section of Virginia. They make many raids 
on the B. & O. R. R., and are generally successful, cap- 
turing and wrecking trains. All is quiet at this point. 
Some of the boys managed to find skates and are hav- 
ing a great time on a pond. Women and children watch 
the tricks on the ice performed by our boys and seem 
pleased. 

December 24th. General Averill and his troops re- 
turned today after a raid of fifteen days. The boys and 
horses show the effects of hard service as I saw them pass 
through town on to Harper's Ferry. They did an im- 
mense amount of damage to the enemy. Hard fighting, 
fording many streams in extreme cold weather during 
cold rains, and snow. A soldier's life in the field is a 
very severe one. The poor horses suffer as well as the 
men. Orders received for the regiment to return to our 
camp at Martinsburg. Christmas Eve. 

December 2^th. Christmas Morn. The boys made 
very happy last night over the prospect of returning to 
our camp. Spent the evening singing, making speeches, 
having a good time. It was late when the tumult ceased 
and we lay down for a little rest and sleep. Our second 
Christmas in the service. We bid goodbye to old 
Charlestown as we go marching on, singing and cheer- 

3 33 



ing, on to Martinsburg. Weather fine, a perfect day. 
Hard marching over a very rough road. At i P. M. 
stopped for rest and rations. Again on the march, pass- 
ing through Leestown, fording the Opequan Creek. 
Pushing right along, anxious to reach camp. About two 
miles from Martinsburg passed the picket line. With 
music by the drum corps and every man in line, we 
marched through the town, reaching camp just before 
dark. The guard left in charge of our camp gave us a 
hearty welcome. Very tired, glad to tumble into our 
tents after an absence of sixteen days. 

December JOth. On our return regular duty was 
resumed. Fourteen new recruits came to the regiment 
from Connecticut. Nine assigned to our company, C. 
Recruits were known as fresh fish. That was the way 
they were greeted. Most of them had relations and 
friends in the regiment. The recruits were always wel- 
come and used kindly. Some were very young boys. 

December Jlst. Orders received to prepare for a 
three days' scout. Reported we go up the valley. A 
cold rain storm set in before we started. Caused the 
marching orders to be countermanded. The regiment to 
remain in camp. I am detailed for picket duty. The last 
day of the year 1863. 

1864 

January 1st. New Year. Last night on second re- 
lief, going on post at eleven o'clock. Remained until 
one o'clock. Saw the old year out and the new in. 
This morning before daylight the outposts were at- 
tacked. A sharp, hot firing. All the forces around town 
were ordered out, double-quick time. All under arms. 
Later it was learned there was a large force of rebel 

34 



cavalry near North Mountain, about five miles out. Re- 
ported to be under Generals Imboden and McCausland. 
The rebel scouts and our pickets caused the sudden firing. 
The cold rain turned to snov^^, and was bitter cold, caus- 
ing much suffering while waiting in line of battle. 
According to reports from prisoners, they suffered worse 
than we did. Standing in line all day, ready for action. 
The boys are anxious to give the enemy a hot welcome. 
Double picket line ordered. 

January 2nd. In line all night. Not much sleep. 
Prisoners brought in this morning, captured by scouts, 
report the enemy going south, owing to the severe 
weather. Late this P. M. all is quiet. Our company 
ordered on picket for the night. A double picket line 
will be maintained for the night. Cold weather 
holds on. 

January jd. Sunday. All quiet last night. Ordered 
to our camp early this morning. Weather a little more 
mild. Cleaned up. Attended church in town. All is 
quiet at this time. Enemy reported well up the valley. 
Plenty of snow on the ground. 

January ^th. Cold with more snow. Detailed as 
guard with brigade teams going about five miles out on 
the Williamsport road for wood. Severe, cold weather. 
Wood choppers and teams must be kept well guarded. 
Rebel scouts and guerillas often reported in this vicinity. 
Wood must be collected for our camp. We pass most of 
these winter evenings very pleasantly in camp, visiting, 
singing, reading, telling stories, writing, study, discus- 
sing the war question, and wondering what the outcome 
will be, and when we will get home. The song " Home 
Sweet Home " leads all others. Often hear the war 



35 



called a cruel war. I think all wars cruel, from what 
little experience I had. 

January 6th. While in town I saw and bought a 
pair of kip leather boots. Keep them well greased. 
They are good for walking through snow and water as 
well as Virginia mud. Try to keep my feet warm and 
dry. The enemy is reported to be again making raids in 
this vicinity. The 3d and 4th Pennsylvania Reserves 
came here as reinforcements. In camp near our regi- 
ment. A good gang of fellows. Soon get well ac- 
quainted with them. 

January 8th. Twenty new recruits arrived from old 
Connecticut. Welcomed as fresh fish. They were 
assigned to the different companies which are being filled 
up for the coming campaign. 

January lOth. Sunday. A very pleasant day. At- 
tended church in town morning and evening. Service 
conducted by Chaplain, 3d Pennsylvania Reserves. 
Attendance by the towns-people and soldiers good. 
Chaplains from the different regiments were invited to 
occupy the pulpits in the churches. Special service was 
held evenings during the week, when no extra duty was 
demanded. 

January lOth-iyth. Weather fine. Weather permit- 
ting, company drill in the forenoon, battalion drill in the 
afternoon, also dress parade. No matter what the 
weather conditions were guard and picket duty must be 
done. Mild weather brings on the sticky Virginia mud, 
disagreeable. My greatest trouble at this time is an 
ingrowing toe nail, causing me much trouble. Doctor 
trying to cure it. At times forced to wear an old shoe. 
Wrote and received many letters, also reading every- 
thing that we can get in the way of reading matter. 

36 



Everything being quiet along the lines, furloughs are 
granted for a short visit home. Two to four are allowed 
at a time, for an absence of ten days, from each company. 

January l8th-2^th. Rain, sunshine, snow, very 
windy, has been the weather for the past week. At times 
very disagreeable. Target practise has taken the place 
of drilling. Daily routine does not change very much 
from day to day. Many are ill at this time, in hospital. 
Occasional death takes place. 

January 26th. In camp today we have a visitor, a 
minister from Woodstock, Connecticut, Rev. Mr. White. 
The day being fine, our regular routine was carried out. 
At dress parade, Mr. White delivered an address, a mes- 
sage from home. A pleasure to hear direct from old 
Connecticut. 

January 28th. This morning the Pennsylvania boys 
are packing up to leave, they having received marching 
orders. Ordered to New Creek, West Virginia. Our 
boys lined up, bid them good bye, good luck, with hearty 
cheers. These regiments, the 3d and 4th were known as 
the reserves and the Buck Tails, they having seen hard 
service. We found them a good lot of boys, and visited 
back and forth very much while they were in camp 
near us. 

January Jlst. The weather for the past few days 
has been very bad, making our duty very severe. Picket 
and guard must be done. These cold storms make the life 
of a soldier a bitter one. Wood must be brought to 
camp, trees cut down, then worked up into fire-wood. 
Must go out about five miles from camp for the wood. 
All must take a hand at the axe. Teams and wood- 
choppers must be kept well guarded. Each tent is pro- 

37 



vided with a small cylinder stove set on the ground, pipe 
up, out the top of the tent. Once in a while a tent takes 
fire, which makes lively work for the boys. We keep 
prepared for such an emergency. Manage to keep com- 
fortable in our tents when off duty. Visit the town quite 
often when off duty. 

Orders received that our old commander. General 
Robert H. Milroy, will visit our camp this afternoon and 
review our regiment. Much excitement getting every- 
thing in order. All are happy and pleased at the pros- 
pect of seeing the General, whom we have not seen since 
the battle of Winchester, June 13th, 14th, 15th, 1863. 
At 4 P. M. the General, with staff and escort, came into 
camp. The regiment being in line, received him with 
hearty cheers and a welcome and a salute. He ad- 
dressed the regiment, which I copy. 

Soldiers of the Eighteenth. Since I last saw you, 
you have suflfered captivity in rebel prisons. We 
have been separated since then, but I have come to 
see you and to praise you for your gallantry. 

I saw you in the second day's fight, as you 
charged the enemy from your rifle-pits and drove 
them back upon their reserves, holding them in 
check until night, when you fell back but with your 
face to the foe. Again I saw you the next morn- 
ing facing as hot a fire as I ever witnessed. I looked 
in vain to see you waver. Boys, it was a hot place 
— a hot place. I saw you go where none but brave 
men dare to go, saw you make three successful 
charges, preserving your line as well as if on dress 
parade. I witnessed it all. I saw you as you broke 
the first line of rebel infantry, and charged up to 
their batteries, driving away their gunners, still 
pressing on and breaking their reserves. But a 
third line was too strong for you. I knew it was. 

38 



Only then did you fall back, when your lines were 
broken, and many brave Connecticut men lay bleed- 
ing on the field. But you only fell back to re-form, 
and give them another taste of your steel. I knew it 
was madness to order you forward again, it was 
ordering you to death and annihilation. But I 
watched you with pride as you charged the third 
time, but when I saw your ranks withering, and 
your comrades falling, it made my heart grow sad 
within me, and I ordered you to fall back. You 
know the rest. You were surrounded and there was 
no escape. 

But I miss your noble commander, Colonel Ely, 
may he soon return to you. 

Boys, to your valor I owe my safety. You come 
from a state whose soldiers never disgrace them- 
selves nor their flag. I am proud of you. 

February Ist-^th. This month so far has brought 
snow and cold rains. Regular duty kept up from day to 
day. Our regiment has been without a chaplain for 
several months. The Rev. William C. Walker, a Baptist 
clergyman of Putnam, Connecticut, having been ap- 
pointed chaplain, arrived in camp and began the duties 
of that office. Believe that he will make a good chap- 
lain. We all welcome him. 

The 123d Ohio Regiment having received orders, 
left our brigade and camp. Ordered to New Creek, 
West Virginia, following the 3d and 4th Pennsylvania 
Regiments. Andrew Washburn, ist Sergeant of our 
company, having been appointed a Captain in the 29th 
Connecticut Colored Regiment, left us to join that regi- 
ment. Albert Green, Company A, organized a singing 
school in town. It is very much enjoyed by the towns- 
people and the soldiers, passing the evenings very pleas- 

39 



antly. I attend once in a while when off duty. Enjoy 
it very much. 

February 6th. Martinsburg, West Virginia. Cloudy, 
cold. Detailed for picket duty. Located on Charles- 
town Pike, southeast of town. On post two hours and off 
four. So I passed the day. Along in the evening, while 
out on post, was relieved from duty, informed that I had 
been granted a furlough for ten days, giving to me an 
opportunity to visit old Connecticut. On my return to 
camp, found that Edwin White of our company had also 
received a furlough. After a bath and a change of rai- 
ment, we decided to journey together. We left camp 
about eleven o'clock at night. At the depot was in- 
formed that the next train North would leave at 2 A. M., 
which would be Sunday morning. About midnight we 
started up town to find something to eat. The town be- 
ing under martial law, provost guards were at every 
corner to protect the town and preserve order. I was in 
possession of the countersign, having received it early in 
the evening while on picket duty. Did not find anything 
to eat, had a good time walking around while waiting for 
the train. Whenever challenged by the guards, I would 
advance and give the countersign. Few trains were run 
on the B. & O. R. R. in the night. Shall not be able to 
get anything to eat until our arrival in Baltimore, where 
the train is due about 7 A. M. We are very happy over 
the prospect of seeing home and friends once more, hav- 
ing been in the service for eighteen months. 

February Jth. Arrived in Baltimore at 7 A. M. 
Had breakfast, then made our way across the city to 
the Philadelphia R. R. Station. There learned that we 
could not get a train out of the city until 9 P. M. A 
great disappointment. When leaving camp thought we 

40 



could connect right through to New York. As we had 
a long time to wait, we put up at the Union House. 
Made a few calls, as we had acquaintances in the city. 
Called at the Stuart Mansion Hospital, where I was 
during my long illness, early in 1863. I found the nurses 
still on duty. All were pleased to see me. One woman 
and two men, in charge of ward 4. At this time it was 
known as the Jarvis Hospital, west end of Baltimore. 
The day passed very pleasantly. 

February 8th. My birthday, 19 years old. Left 
Baltimore at 9 o'clock last night. Passed through Phila- 
delphia about midnight. Arrived in Jersey City at 8 
A. M. Made my way to the home of my relations, tak- 
ing breakfast with my grandmother. All were surprised 
and glad to see me. New York was my early boyhood 
home, having been born in that city, but left it when 
eleven years old, going to Connecticut to live. My time 
passed quickly and very pleasantly. Nothing happened 
to mar the pleasure of my visit. 

February lOth. Norwich, Connecticut. Left New 
York last night by boat. Arrived here all right. Came 
from New London to Norwich on the engine with my 
cousin Sidney Williams. Made my way to the home of 
my aunt, Mrs. Jane Tubbs. Gave the family a great 
surprise. Did not have time to let them know that I was 
coming. 

February ISth. Called on friends in and around 
Norwich. Visited my country home in Hanover, near 
Norwich. Time passed quickly and very pleasantly. 
Must again set my face southward, and join the regi- 
ment. Weather very cold during my vacation. 

February l6th. In New York. Left Norwich last 
night by boat. A cold sail on Long Island Sound. Re- 

41 



main here today and tonight. My cousin Theodore 
Luyster enlisted in the loth New York Regiment. His 
father and mother feel very badly over it. Many other 
mothers and fathers have been made to feel sad over the 
same thing. Boys seem bound to enlist. 

February l8th. Arrived at Martinsburg at 2 A. M. 
Left Jersey City early yesterday morning. After an un- 
eventful trip arrived in Baltimore at 4 P. M. Left at 
nine o'clock. Met other members of the regiment 
bound for camp. When we got there lay down for a 
little rest and sleep. At daylight attended roll-call, after 
which I was given a hearty welcome by the boys of 
Company C. Thankful for the furlough and the good 
time. Connecticut did look good to me as I again turned 
my back to it, facing southward, bound for old Virginia. 
Again writing letters home after my safe arrival in camp. 

February 20th. Detailed for picket duty. It again 
fell my lot to be located on the Charlestown road and the 
same post I left on the eve of the 6th when I received 
my furlough. Weather fine at this time. All is quiet 
in this vicinity. No one knows how long it will last. 
Business improving in town. 

February 22d. Washington's Birthday. Orders to 
prepare for parade and review. All the troops around 
town ordered to take part. The march will be through 
the principal streets. Quite a celebration in honor of the 
first president, George Washington. Wrote several 
letters to friends at home. 

February 28th. Nothing important has taken place 
since the last date. Sunshine, cold, rain, and snow has 
come to us weatherwise. Certain duties must be kept up 
regardless of weather. Attended church in town. 
Masonic funeral in town this afternoon. The drum- 

42 



corps of our regiment furnished the marching music. 
Many soldiers taking part in the parade who were 
Masons. They helped to carry on the service. The 
citizens were pleased to have the help of the soldiers. 

March 1st. Martinsburg, West Virginia. March 
brought a severe snow-storm. Out in it, on picket duty. 
The duty must be attended to no matter how severe it 
may be. This is a soldier's life. War is cruel. 

March 2nd. Came off picket duty. My laundry 
and repairs on my clothes I have done by a German 
woman in town. Called for my laundry. Had a bath, 
put on clean clothes, for which I am very thankful. Re- 
ceived a pass, visited town. No soldier can enter town 
without a permit, excuse and pass must come from the 
company commander. Coming off picket or guard duty 
a soldier is excused from all duty during the day, ex- 
cept dress parade. Much pride is taken in dress parade, 
then we wear our good clothes. 

March 4th. Received a number of letters from 
friends at home. Snow has disappeared. While the 
weather is fine, the mud is very sticky and plenty of it. 
A large quantity will stick to one's feet, or rather to our 
army brogans, as we attempt to walk in it. This all 
comes in the life of a soldier. We are not serving our 
country for pleasure. We are very anxious to have the 
war stop. We are not in love with the life but the war 
must be stopped right, so that we can have a free 
country. 

March ^th. Cold rain storm. A disagreeable day 
in camp. We are ready for duty at any time, no matter 
how bad the weather may be. We are starting on the 
fourth year of this awful war. Many more brave men 
must fall before the end comes. 

43 



March dth. Sunday. Cloudy and cold. Attended 
church in town. Wrote letters. Late this afternoon 
marching orders received. Leave camp on the morrow 
for parts unknown to us. Soldiers must obey orders and 
not ask questions. At times some movements look very 
foolish to us. We often wish the war was over and we 
could go marching homeward. The people suffer very 
much from the effects of the war. Thankful it is no 
nearer to old Connecticut. The guerillas and scouts keep 
us on the alert all the time as they are liable to show up 
at any time. They raid trains on the B. & O. R. R. 
Seem to know when they can make a good haul. 

March Jth. Broke camp early this morning. 
Marched through town. Boarded a train of box cars at 
the station. Headed east. Stopped at Harper's Ferry. 
Five companies ordered to go in camp on Bolivar 
Heights. The train with five companies proceeded on, 
over the Potomac River into Maryland about ten miles 
farther, stopping at the Point of Rocks, near the Potomac, 
ten miles from Harper's Ferry. Companies C and I 
ordered off the train. The other three companies con- 
tinued on to Monocacy Junction. As soon as our com- 
pany was ordered out I w^as detailed for picket duty. 
Posted near the ford leading over into Virginia. Here 
we were obliged to use the river water. The current ran 
very swift at this point. 

March 8th. A cold, wet, disagreeable night for 
picket duty. We are about as miserable as we can be. 
When off duty we find shelter in an old barn, until the 
arrival of our tents. Maryland mud is fully as bad as 
Virginia. Trying to make the best of our condition, 
hoping for sunshine and warmer weather. All is quiet 
along the picket line. Once in a while the boys take 

44 



chances and shoot at the turkey buzzards, sailing through 
the air. 

March iith. Up to this date the weather has been 
very bad. We are also short of rations. On picket every 
other night. Late today our tents arrived, and a good 
supply of rations. We shall have to put in another night 
in the cold old barn. Somewhat discouraged over our 
present condition. It is all in the life of a soldier, who 
must meet all discouragements and make the best of it 
as the days come and go. 

March I2th. This morning opened up bright and 
pleasant. Camp located and tents put up. A busy day. 
We have here with us a battalion of cavalry known as the 
Loudon Rangers, composed of loyal Virginians and 
Marylanders. They make good scouts. Some few have 
been in the rebel service. They often ford the river, 
going into the Loudon valley, watching the enemy. At 
this point the B. & O. R. R. turns to the north, leaving 
the Potomac River. The scenery at the Point of Rocks 
is grand. When clear the water of the river looks blue. 
It is either blue, or yellow from the rains which come 
pouring into it from the brooks and creeks in Maryland 
and Virginia. 

These nights are cold for picket duty along the Poto- 
mac. While wishing the war was over, I have no de- 
sire to go back to old Connecticut until the end comes. I 
enlisted for the war and am doing my duty as it comes 
from day to day. I must make mention of the Loudon 
Rangers who are a plucky crowd and who have some 
very severe and dangerous duty. I met one who had been 
in the rebel service and was up against us at Winchester. 
Said that our firing at Carter's Farm was a severe one. 
We put up a good fight. We were fighting Jackson's 

45 



old corps, commanded by General Ewell. It was con- 
sidered as among the best fighting corps in the Con- 
federate Army. At that time it numbered among thirty 
and forty thousand, with a large number of heavy field 
guns. 

A large flock of wild geese passed over our camp, go- 
ing north. They know a good country. There are large 
flocks of turkey buzzards in this vicinity. Known as 
scavengers. On picket tonight. 

March 14th. Cold, disagreeable morning. All 
quiet along the Potomac at this place. Received a num- 
ber of letters from friends at home. These letters bring 
much comfort to a fellow. Some of our boys are being 
appointed officers in the colored regiments. These regi- 
ments must have white commissioned officers. L. A. 
Manning and I, of Company C, climbed to the top of 
the Point of Rocks, where we had a fine view of Mary- 
land and Virginia, and for miles down the Potomac. 
From this point the river appeared to be running up 
hill. We enjoyed the scenery and the quietness of the 
surrounding country. Not far away battles were being 
fought. War is liable to break out at this point almost 
any day. At times rebel scouts and guerillas can be seen 
across the river, causing us to keep a good lookout and 
be on the alert. We very seldom exchange shots across 
the river. 

March l8th. Nothing important has taken place 
during the past few days. Weather very good, but very 
cold nights along the Potomac. Out among the farmers 
buying straw for our tents. Ground too cold to sleep on. 
Try to keep comfortable. Large campfires kept burn- 
ing nights and days. When too cold to sleep sit around 
the fire. 

46 



March iQth. L. A. Manning and I off duty. 
Weather being fine, we decided to take a long walk out 
into the country. Passed a few farm houses. Came to a 
small school house where we heard the music of a violin. 
Looking at the building and listening to the music, a 
gentleman came out and invited us in. He was the 
teacher. It being Saturday there was no school. He 
was practising on the violin. A fine looking young man. 
Inclined to ask us many questions, which we avoided 
answering. His sympathy was with the South all right 
We were about four miles from camp. Returned very 
much pleased with our tramp. Maryland is a fine coun- 
try. We had passed through different sections of it. 

March 20th. Sunday. Detailed for picket duty. 
Posted about two miles up the river, between the river 
and the canal, on the tow path. Our company, C, and 
the Loudon Rangers ordered to ford the river for a 
scout into Virginia. Returned quite late. Nothing im- 
portant obtained. Bad time of the year to ford rivers. 
Snow squalls still greet us. It doesn't last very long, but 
helps to increase the circulation of the mud. Camp- 
fire burning all the time. We often burn our clothes by 
keeping too close to it. We live close to the earth. In 
warm weather we have a better show to keep clean, 
bathe, and wash our clothes. 

March 2jth. Marching orders received to report at 
regimental headquarters. Camp Hill, Bolivar Heights, 
near Harper's Ferry. A cold rain storm on at this time. 
On account of a hard cold, with a number of others, 
went to Harper's Ferry by cars. There met by am- 
bulance and rode to camp. My first ride in an ambu- 
lance. Bad getting around in camp on account of the 
deep mud. Harper's Ferry is a side hill town. The 

47 



Potomac and the Shenandoah on either side. Here the 
B. & O. R. R. crosses the Potomac into Maryland. 
Above Harper's Ferry is located the Jefferson Rock, 
where one gets a fine view. The scenery at this point is 
grand. The mountains, rivers, and the valley, and also 
the great Maryland Heights. 

March 28th. Camp Hill, Bolivar Heights. Early 
this morning received orders to prepare three days' 
rations. Reported we are to go up the valley, scouting. 
Waiting for orders. At noontime rumors began to cir- 
culate that the regiment was ordered home to vote. The 
news seemed too good to be true. Orders came to detail 
two men from each company to remain as camp guard. 
Those who were detailed to remain felt very badly. All 
were anxious to see home. At this time the anti-war 
party was very strong in Connecticut, which may seem 
very strange. They were called copper-heads. Late in 
the afternoon orders came to fall in. A gay and happy 
crowd, marching and singing as we go down through 
Harper's Ferry, where a train was in waiting. Did not 
take us long to board the train, which soon got under 
way, bound for Baltimore. Singing, cheering, making 
merry as the train began to move, on over the Potomac 
River into Maryland. 

March 2gth. Arrived in Baltimore early this morn- 
ing. Nothing happened to mar the pleasure of the jour- 
ney. All were soon out of the cars, line quickly formed, 
ready to march from the Camden Street station to the 
Philadelphia R. R. station, on the east side. Our march 
led through Pratt Street, the scene of the attack on the 
6th Massachusetts regiment in April, 1861, by the Balti- 
more toughs, who claimed to be in sympathy with the 
South. 

48 



March 2Qth. At the Philadelphia station a train 
was soon made ready for us, which we quickly boarded, 
and were soon under way, passing the scenes of our first 
soldier life. Camp Emory and Fort Marshall. These 
were points of interest to us, and very pleasant recollec- 
tions. After an uneventful trip we arrived in Phila- 
delphia late this P. M. Ordered out of the cars, line 
formed for marching, stopping at a place known as the 
Cooper Shop, where a good dinner was served by the 
ladies of Philadelphia. It was a very pleasant occasion 
in our lives, never to be forgotten. Again journeying on 
towards New York. Our train being special was often 
side-tracked and we were forced to wait. 

March JOth. After an all-night's ride on a slow 
train we reached Jersey City at eight o'clock this morn- 
ing. We were due in Connecticut this morning in time 
for the men to register, so they could vote, this being the 
last day. At Jersey City marched on board a small 
transport. By the time half of the regiment was on 
board, the old craft began to sink. Not fit to take us 
around New York, and surely not through Long Island 
Sound. We returned to the dock. Informed the ofiicers 
we were ready to pay our fares home by cars, as we would 
not risk our lives on that frail craft. After waiting awhile 
orders came to fall in. Then marched on board a Cort- 
landt Street ferry-boat for New York, thence through 
Cortlandt Street to Broadway, on up to 14th Street, then 
up 4th Avenue to 27th Street, to the station, to the New 
York, New Haven, and Hartford R. R. Going on board 
train we were soon bound for Connecticut. Passed on 
through New Haven, out on the Shore Line road. The 
train was often side-tracked, making the journey a tedi- 
ous one. Nothing important happened during the 
4 49 



journey until we reached the Connecticut River. Up to 
this time cheers and congratulations had been shouted for 
good old Connecticut. It was believed that the mana- 
gers of the railroad were in sympathy with the South and 
were copper-heads. The crossing of the Connecticut 
River was by ferry-boat. It was obliged to make two 
trips in order to get the regiment over. The river was 
very high and very swift, owing to the spring freshet. 
Our company went over in the first load with safety. 
The second boat-load was carried out into the Sound. 
Great anxiety was felt for those on board as the boat 
struggled in the swift current to make the dock. After 
making slow progress the boat finally reached the dock, 
after a long time. It began to grow dark before the train 
started again. After many delays the train arrived in 
Norwich about midnight, in a cold rain-storm. Form- 
ing in line we marched to Treadway's Hall on Water 
Street, a good lunch having been provided. Many 
people were out, waiting to greet the regiment. After 
the reception at the hall many made their way home. 
Those from out of town remained in the hall until morn- 
ing. All were happy, being home once more. Pretty 
well tired out. Not much sleep for the past three days 
and nights on the cars, homeward bound. My home was 
with an aunt on Franklin Street, where I received a 
hearty welcome. 

March Jlst. Norwich, Connecticut. It is good to 
be home once more among friends. Wishing the war 
was over. I am afraid that many more of the i8th Regi- 
ment must fall before the end comes. Some will never 
see home again. These are dark, sad days, but we are 
trying to enjoy our visit at home, visiting relations and 
friends. The cemeteries in the cities and the country 

50 



show that many young fellows have given their lives for 
our country. 

April 3d. Sunday. Attended church and Sunday 
School at Hanover, New London County, where I spent 
my boyhood days. 

April ^th. Governor Wm. A. Buckingham re- 
elected. Pleasing to the boys in blue. The body of 
William Town, Company A, having arrived, was given 
a military funeral by the regiment in Greenville, Nor- 
wich. Bought one dollar's worth of postage stamps. 
Writing letters is one of the pleasing features of the army 
life. Orders for our return tomorrow. All members 
must assemble here tomorrow morning. 

April 6th. Soon after noon the regiment formed in 
line for parade through some of the principal streets. 
Received a great reception all along the line of march. 
After the parade marched on board the steamer City of 
Norwich, which soon got under way and moved slowly 
down the river. With cheers and waving of handker- 
chiefs we again said goodbye to home and friends. Sad- 
ness came over the men as we looked back on the scene, 
the crowds on the dock and the city. How we did wish 
the war was over. We were in for three years, or during 
the war, and are bound to stick until the end comes and 
peace reigns throughout our land. All is quiet on board 
the boat. Hunting for some place to lie down for sleep. 

April 7th. Arrived in New York early this morn- 
ing. Crossed over to Jersey City by ferry-boat. Soon 
on board train, bound for Philadelphia. Making good 
time, much better than when home-bound. On arrival 
had another good dinner at the Cooper Shop, after which 
we again boarded train for Baltimore. Everything go- 



51 



ing well, making good time. Nothing important has 
taken place. 

April 8th. Arrived at midnight last night. Marched 
to the Union Relief Rooms. Here we wait for transpor- 
tation to Harper's Ferry. Wishing we were in our camp. 

April Qth. Still waiting at the Union Relief Rooms 
for transportation to our camp. Rain — cold — disagree- 
able weather. Cannot leave the place for we don't know 
just when a train will be ready for us. Late this P. M. 
we go on board train for Virginia. 

April lOth. A cold, damp, disagreeable morning. 
Passed the Point of Rocks early this morning. Saw that 
the Potomac River was on a rampage owing to the recent 
heavy rains. On arrival at Harper's Ferry formed in 
line for a march to Camp Hill, Bolivar Heights. Dur- 
ing our absence the 34th Massachusetts Regiment was 
ordered to take our place, so took possession of our camp. 
We were forced to take quarters in old buildings until 
camp could be located and tents put up. A large mail 
was waiting for us. I received a number of letters. 

April I2th. Nothing important has taken place. 
Our regular routine of duty goes on from day to day. A 
strong picket guard is kept up owing to the guerillas in 
these mountains. Mosby is the chief among them. This 
seems to be the rainy season, judging by the way it comes 
down. Mud, mud, sticky Virginia mud. At every step 
one must lift a load of it, as it sticks to our army shoes. 
It helps to add misery to our camp life. Well, we are 
Uncle Sam's soldiers, doing our duty from day to day. 

April 14th. Sunshine for this morning. Came ofif 
picket duty. Visited town on a pass, a lonesome old 
place. The old buildings show the eflPects of the war, 
broken down and ruined. Some must have been fine ones 

52 



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M is! 



Charles H. Lynch 
1864 



in their day. At dress parade a new national flag was 
brought out for the first time. Colonel Ely surrendered 
to the enemy the one given us by the ladies of Norwich. 
Some things in this life are hard to understand. It 
could have been saved as well as the state flag, at Win- 
chester, June 15th, 1863. Received my pictures, taken 
when I was at home. Sending them out. 

April IQth. All quiet in camp for the past few days. 
Detailed for picket duty this morning. Weather fine. 
Located at the bridge over the Shenandoah River. 
Officer of the guard a Lieutenant from the 5th New York 
Heavy Artillery. General Max Weber, a former 
colonel, 20th New York Regiment known as the Turner 
Rifles, in command at this post. A fine old German 
officer. Military rules require that the reserve guards 
turn out and salute the General. I had never seen him, 
did not know him. Did not see the star denoting his 
rank until it was too late to call out the guard. The 
Lieutenant, a fine young man, felt very badly about it. 
I was generally on the lookout, but got caught this time. 
After the General left I went to the Lieutenant and made 
an apology, informing him how badly I felt over it, be- 
cause I always prided myself on being on the lookout. 

April 20th. A very pleasant morning. Came off 
picket. After a good clean-up, obtained a pass permit- 
ting me to cross the Potomac River into Maryland, as I 
wished to visit and climb to the top of Maryland 
Heights, which I had done before. One gets a fine view 
of a tract of country which is very pleasant to look at, 
the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Loudon Valley, the 
Shenandoah Valley, up and down the Potomac River, 
Pleasant Valley, Maryland. The pleasure was well 
worth the labor and the trouble I went through. Much 

53 



fighting had taken place in this vicinity but now quiet 
and peaceful. Battles are liable to take place here most 
any day. I always felt that Pleasant Valley, Maryland, 
was rightly named, for it is a beautiful country. 

April 2Sd. Early this morning the Johnnie Rebs 
made an attack on the outposts on the Charlestown Pike. 
A hot fire was kept up. Our pickets holding them in 
check while our regiment was ordered out, double quick. 
We made a forced march out about two miles but the 
enemy had left. It was thought to be a scouting party, 
who came near the outposts. Our scouts reported the 
enemy going up the valley. Our regiment returned to 
camp. Two large field guns were mounted in our camp, 
pointed towards the Loudon Heights. Can be seen by 
the enemy. They are ready for work at any moment 
Weather permitting drill and dress parade are kept up. 
Spare time devoted to reading and writing letters and 
discussing the war question. Wondering what the out- 
come will be and when the end will come. All is quiet 
in our camp. 

April 26th, Marching orders received. Ordered 
to report at Martinsburg. Now under General Sigel, 
who has been put in command of all the forces in the 
Shenandoah Valley, for an advance up the valley. 

April 2Jth. Camp Hill, Bolivar Heights, near 
Harper's Ferry. Broke camp. I am detailed to go by 
train with regimental baggage, to load and unload and 
also to guard it. The regiment on the march. By noon- 
time we had the baggage loaded and the train under 
way, which makes a good run. On arrival baggage was 
unloaded. Put up tent near railroad station. Must wait 
for the regiment. Called on the German people who did 
my washing and mending whenever we were in this 

54 



vicinity. Mrs. Shults invited me to remain and have 
supper with the family. Such invitations did not come 
very often, but I accepted and enjoyed it. 

April 28th. Martinsburg, West Virginia. Up early 
this morning, waiting for the regiment which soon came 
marching into town, having camped for the night about 
five miles out of town. Weather fine. Ordered to camp 
out on the Williamsport Pike, north side. Just got camp 
located, tents up, orders came to strike tents, turn them 
over to the Quartermaster's Department, and in place to 
receive shelter tents, also known as pup tents by the sol- 
diers. Ordered to be ready to march early on the 
morrow. We are in for business now. Weather fine 
tonight. 

April 2gth. Reveille at daylight, then roll call, 
breakfast. Packed up waiting for orders to march, 
while in line. The command being given, we began 
our march, passing through town, out on the Winchester 
Pike. Macadamized roads were known as pikes. Go- 
ing towards Winchester it was named after that town. 
Going from Winchester the same road was known as the 
Martinsburg Pike because it led to that town. Just out- 
side of Martinsburg the 8th Corps was forming, under 
the command of General Sigel. This corps was also 
called The Army of West Virginia and ^the Shenandoah 
Valley. Our regiment was the last to arrive. Received 
hearty cheers from the Ohio and West Virginia boys, 
which we returned in good old Yankee style. We could 
cheer. At this point we were brigaded with the 28th 
and 126th Ohio Regiments under the command of 
Colonel Moore, 28th Ohio, a German officer. About 
nine o'clock we began our march, the day being very hot 
and the road very dusty. Pushing up the valley. After 

55 



a slow, tedious march, late in the day, a halt was made at 
Bunker Hill, a small village on the main pike. A sup- 
ply of good water. Tired and leg weary. Our record 
for today's march, ten miles. 

April 30th, At Bunker Hill. Only doing picket 
duty and resting. Weather cloudy. Liable to march at 
any minute. All is quiet and nothing important has 
taken place up to this time. Camp made up with our 
shelter tents. 

May 1st. Marching orders this morning. Pushing 
on towards Winchester. Passed over the battle-field 
known to us as Carter's Farm, or Summit Point, on the 
Harper's Ferry and Winchester R. R. On this field we 
did some hard fighting against great odds, June 15th, 
1863. Many of our boys were made prisoners. Talked 
over the events of the battle as we marched along, point- 
ing out the places where our boys fell and were buried. 
We are very familiar with this section of Virginia. 
Pushing along, passed through Winchester. Very few 
people in sight. Those we saw said they hated the Yan- 
kees. Hope we would all be captured and taken to Rich- 
mond. Out on the main pike, came to a halt near the 
Union Mills. Our regiment detailed for picket on the 
advance, near Kernstown. We are now in the enemy's 
country. Liable to meet trouble at any time. The signal 
corps is kept very busy. I do not know the code but it is 
very interesting to me as I watch them work. They seem 
to find every high point of ground where they get a fine 
view of the country. 

May 2d. Severe rain storm this morning. Came off 
picket wet through. Tents no good, leaking very badly. 
Our regiment still on the advance, holding the picket line 
from the main pike to the Romney dirt road on the west. 

56 



May 3d. Received three days' rations. On picket 
post near the Romney road. A dangerous point, as the 
rebel scouts and cavalry take the dirt roads instead of 
the pikes. Cannot be heard as they advance. Horses 
make more noise on the pike. 

May 4th. On the third relief last night from i to 3 
A. M. Visited by the grand-rounds about 2 A. M. All 
v^as well. Relieved this morning. Weather clear and 
fine. Saw one of our cavalry scouting parties pass along 
the pike, having captured a rebel Major and twelve men 
up near Strasburg. Drilling and dress parade kept up 
when the weather permits. 

May gth. Nothing important has transpired since 
the last date. Our regiment was kept on the advance 
picket line. Orders to march. The army again on the 
march. Pushing on up the valley. Getting farther from 
our base of supplies as we march over the old pike wheie 
we have marched before, while doing scouting duty. 
Our cavalry on the advance are continually skirmishing 
with the enemy's cavalry who try to contest every mile 
as our advance pushes on. Marched through Newtown 
and Middletown. Hot dusty marching. Much suffer- 
ing from the extreme heat. Every time we halt, run for 
water. Many good springs in this section. Once in a 
while we find a sulphur spring. Don't like the taste of 
it but are obliged to drink it in order to quench our 
thirst. I am in the best of health. Rugged enough for 
this kind of life. Thankful that I am so well. Our ad- 
vance are continually skirmishing with the enemy. 
Sometimes it sounds as though there was a hot time. 
We are looking for a battle as we advance. Notice and 
talk about the points of interest as we go marching on. 
Fine country is this Shenandoah Valley. Blue Ridge 

57 



Mountains on our left. Came to a halt on the north bank 
of Cedar Creek, about three miles from the town of Stras- 
burg. Make camp here for the night. Pleased when we 
halt for the night. 

May lOth. Turned out early this morning. Orders 
to prepare for inspection and drill. Officers seem bound 
to keep us busy. This afternoon while enjoying a bath 
and a swim in Cedar Creek, felt something around my 
leg under water. It did not take me long to pull the 
thing ofif, which proved to be a water snake. With a 
jump I was soon out of the water. My leg bled freely 
from a small wound. First thought that I had been 
bitten. No bad results coming from it, decided that the 
wound was made by a sharp stone. Comrade Charlie 
Geer of our company was with me. 

May nth. Marching orders. Left camp early this 
morning. The army on the move. Waded Cedar Creek, 
on through the town of Strasburg, up Fishers Hill. 
The boys are all in good spirits as we go marching on. 
Halt and go into camp near the town of Woodstock, in 
the valley. Marched about ten miles. 

May I2th. A severe rain storm set in last night. 
Detailed for picket. Wet through. Between the rain 
and the mud we are in misery. Duty must be attended 
to. We are in the field, the enemy's country. What 
sleep we can get in the mud and rain doesn't amount to 
very much, as we must lie on the ground. We are en- 
during hardships for our country. Very little growling 
or complaining from the boys. Some of the boys will 
call out, good natured, " Boys, it is three years or dur- 
ing," meaning during the war. Most generally creates 
a laugh, in spite of our condition. Some changes in our 
company. Color-sergeant Geo. W. Brady made first 

58 



sergeant, Corporal Sylvanus Downer made color- 
sergeant. 

May 13th. Rain continues. No prospect of a let up. 
I helped our wagoner, Wm. Wetmore to water the mules. 
Had to go about a half mile from our camp. My first 
ride on a mule. Rode one and led others. We are won- 
dering if it will ever stop raining. Wet through. Must 
attend to our duty and sleep on the wet ground. Mud, 
mud, Virginia mud. Sticks like glue. Rain, rain. 

May 14th. Rain. Broke camp at 4 o'clock this 
morning. Again on the march, pushing up the valley. 
Heavy cannonading going on at a distance. By the 
sound, hot work must be going on at the front. March- 
ing on, passed through the town of Edenburg. Go into 
camp about a mile from the town. Our regiment detailed 
for picket duty. Relieved the 12th West Virginia Regi- 
ment. I was detailed with two hundred others to go on 
post. The rest of the regiment formed the reserves. 
Lieutenant Robert Kerr in command of the outposts. 
Posted in the woods about one mile from headquarters. 
Hot, muggy, wet weather. We are very anxious about 
the morrow, as we listen to the heavy artillery firing. We 
are about fifty miles from Harper's Ferry, our base of 
supplies, with no prospect of re-enforcements, if needed. 
The enemy have the advantage of railroads direct to 
Richmond. Report comes that our cavalry are putting 
up a hard fight at New Market, sixteen miles south of 
Edenburg, and about fifteen from our picket line. 

May ISth. Rain. Rain. On picket, wondering why 
we do not get relieved. It is past time for the relief to 
show up. Lieutenant Kerr sends a detail to camp to 
learn the cause. Returned in a short time, reported the 
regiment had left for parts unknown. The Lieutenant 

59 



called in the pickets to the reserve headquarters in the 
woods. Formed company and were ready for action as 
we marched out of the woods to the pike, expecting to 
meet the enemy's scouts. Instead we met our own cavalry 
scouts who reported our regiment left in the night, going 
up the valley towards New Market. We started on after 
them, making a forced march, wet, tired, hungry, well 
used up. Some misunderstanding of orders was the 
cause of our being left on picket. It was a wonder to us 
that we did not meet the rebel cavalry and have a hot 
time, as they had been in this vicinity, scouting all around 
us. We were determined to put up a hot fight, had we 
met the enemy. Lieutenant Kerr kept urging us on, mak- 
ing a forced march up the pike. Duty having been so 
severe, and the lack of rations for the past few days, we 
were near used up. The last two miles of the march we 
ran, and joined the regiment as they were going into 
action, having made a march of sixteen miles with hardly 
a rest, and very little to eat. 

Colonel Moore, Commander of our brigade, pushed 
our regiment and an Ohio regiment, with a section of 
a battery, two field guns, about six miles in advance of the 
main army, bringing on a general engagement. We 
could not hold the enemy in check as they advanced 
with a long line of battle. Our battery fell back. The 
Ohio regiment followed, when our commander, Lieuten- 
ant-colonel Peale, gave the command to our regiment, 
" By the right of companies, to the rear in column," so 
we continued to march until we met the 34th Massachu- 
setts Regiment, coming running up with a battery, taking 
a good position. The enemy was held in check, but for 
a short time. Sigel managed to get his main force in 
line, batteries posted, so the enemy was held in check. 

60 



Our brigade suffered heavy loss. Some of the field pieces 
had to be abandoned as the horses had been killed and 
we were in too much mud to draw them away, or back 
to the main line. It looked to us like a case of mis- 
management. 

May Idth. Last night we fell back to Mount Jack- 
son, when orders were given to fall back, or to continue 
the march. I am about worn out for the want of sleep 
and rest. This is war and the life of a soldier. With all 
our troubles it continues to rain very hard and the mud 
is deep. Hard work to keep on the march. We surely 
are suffering for our country. Reverses will come, we 
cannot help it. We try to do our duty. I am so tired and 
worn out that I fell asleep on the march last night. This 
may seem almost incredible. These are true facts that I 
am writing. 

After a continuous march we reached the town of 
Strasburg late this afternoon. Passed through the town, 
wading Cedar Creek, going into camp on the north side, 
close to the creek. As soon as we halted, dropped down 
on the ground and fell asleep, so tired and worn out. 
Thankful for the privilege. The ground for a bed and 
the sky for a covering. We are now thirty miles from 
yesterday's scenes. Our scouts brought in a bushwhacker, 
a tough looking specimen of humanity. Not much mercy 
is shown to them. 

May IJth. Near Cedar Creek. Took account of 
stock this morning. A requisition goes to the quarter- 
master for a supply of clothes, rubber blankets, shelter 
tents. Much of our luggage gets lost on the march and 
in battle. Captain Wm. L. Spaulding, Co. B, killed at 
Newmarket. Body brought along by members of his 
company. Buried today near Cedar Creek, with military 

61 



honors, the regiment taking part. It is intended to send 
the body home later. I expect to sleep tonight m an 

army wagon, near camp. . , • 

May 20th. Nothing important has transpired since 
the last date. Weather warm and fine. Getting rested. 
A soldier must obey orders, not ask questions keep his 
eyes open, be on the alert ready for the call to duty Our 
company, C, loss at New Market, twelve wounded five 
prisoners. General Sigel relieved of the command. A 
good officer. Kind to the men under his command. 
From a soldier's view we need more men in this, the 
Shenandoah, valley. Major-General David Hunter 
now in command. Dark complexion, black moustache, 
stern looking. We don't like his looks. We are doing 
picket duty and drilling as the days come and go. Writ- 
ing many letters. We manage to keep our writing paper 

dry 

May 2l5t. Colonel Ely and other officers who have 
been prisoners since June 15th, 1863, returned and 
assumed command of the regiment. We are again in 
good condition for any kind of duty that we may be called 
upon. A good rest here, near Cedar Creek. 

May 24th. Nothing of importance has taken place 
in camp since the last date. Marching orders received 
in the shape of general orders. Advance up the valley. 
Four days' rations to be issued, with instructions to make 
it last eight. That puts us on half rations, and we are also 
put in light marching order. All extra baggage, with 
knapsacks, sent to the rear, at Martinsburg. Regiment 
on skirmish drill. Our company, color company, re- 
mains on the reserves. When the regiment forms in line 
the formation is made on center company and the colors. 



62 



All things are now ready for the advance. Waiting for 
orders. 

May 26th. Broke camp very early this hot morning. 
Once more on the march. Again waded Cedar Creek, 
passing through Strasburg, on up Fishers Hill, hot and 
very dusty. Again camp near Woodstock. Some of 
the boys come from the town of Woodstock, Connecticut. 
There are many incidents that remind us of home. As 
soon as we halted for the night, began to hunt for wood 
for our fires, to boil cofifee, fry our bacon and hard tack. 
We seem to be always hungry and ready to eat. The 
health of the regiment at this time is good. 

May 27th. Rain. Regiment ordered out into line 
about 3 A. M. This is done to guard against a surprise 
while we are in the enemy's country. Remained in line 
about two hours, then stacked arms and were dismissed 
and allowed to get our breakfast. This is a dark, rainy, 
dismal day in camp. Late this afternoon a battalion, 5th 
New York Heavy Artillery, came into camp, they having 
made a forced march, being ordered to join the army. 
We were old friends, having been in the same brigade 
during the winter of 1862-3. We greeted them with 
hearty cheers which they returned, while our Colonel and 
their Lieutenant-Colonel, who was in command, were 
shaking hands, while on horseback. Our company de- 
tailed for picket duty. Located on the extreme right of 
the picket line. 

May 28th. Nothing important occurred last night. 
All quiet this morning. In an open country where we 
have a good view. We are located west of the pike. 
Ordered to keep a sharp lookout for the enemy's cavalry 
and guerillas. Late this afternoon we were relieved from 
picket duty. This is a fine country as we continue to see. 

63 



May 2Qth. Left camp early this hot morning. Push- 
ing up the valley. Passed through Woodstock. Very few 
people to be seen. They still inform us that they hate 
the Yankees. Hope we will all be captured and be sent 
to Richmond. Came to a halt at Mount Jackson. Lme 
of battle formed. The advance are having a hot time, as 
we can plainly hear the boom of the guns. Passmg over 
the battle-field of the 15th, stopping near New Market. 
I am in the best of health. Rations runnmg low. Would 
like more to eat. Hot, cloudy, muggy weather. Our 
march today covers twenty miles. 

May 30th. Owing to our rations running very low 
some of the boys took the liberty to go foraging, going 
without a permit from the General's headquarters. 
They were rounded up by cavalry scouts, placed under 
arrest, taken to headquarters, where they received a 
severe reprimand from General Hunter. All were pun- 
ished. Non-commissioned officers reduced to the ranks. 
Privates made to carry a heavy fence rail over the shoul- 
der and walk a beat for four hours. The lack of rations 
and seeing the boys undergoing a severe punishment 
made a gloomy time for us. The life of a soldier in the 
field is no picnic. We can stand most anything but hun- 
ger. It did seem very strange to us that we could not 
forage in the enemy's country. We are seventy miles 
from our base of supplies, which must be brought to us 
in wagons under a strong guard. Cavalry must do that 
duty. Reported that they have much trouble from the 
guerillas under Mosby and others. They keep concealed 
in the woods along the pike. From the hills they can 
be seen far up and down the valley. Weather cloudy 
and muggy. 



64 



May jist. This morning still finds us in camp on 
the battle-field, near New Market. Orders from the 
General's headquarters. Details have been made to 
forage and sent out from headquarters. Inspection and 
battalion drill by our Colonel, Ely. The first since his 
return from prison. The Colonel, on the quiet, restored 
to their former rank the non-commissioned officers re- 
duced by General Hunter for foraging. They were all 
good boys, and driven to it by hunger. I often wonder 
why we must have this awful war. This is a beautiful 
country, at this time quiet and peaceful, but the horrors 
of war liable to come at most any time. 

June 1st. In camp waiting for orders to advance. 
Skirmish drill during the forenoon. This afternoon 
went to the Shenandoah River. Gave my clothes a good 
washing, which they needed. Remained in the water, 
having a good bath and swim, until they were dry. It 
did not take long in the hot sun. No change of raiment 
for a soldier in the field. Managed to carry one extra 
pair of woolen stockings. Army brogans for soldiers. 
Marching orders received. 

June 2nd. On the march again, on through New 
Market. As we go pushing up the valley, our advance 
are again having a hot time, judging by the booming of 
the guns. Passed the Lincoln Springs, a fine body of 
water coming out of the ground. The force is strong 
enough to drive a mill. A good drink from its cold 
water. There are many fine springs in this valley. Our 
boys are driving the Rebs as they advance. Report comes 
that our cavalry boys have taken Harrisonburg. Hard 
marching over these rough, stony roads. Very tired to- 
night. 



65 



June 3d. In camp near Harrisonburg. Sat up very 
late last night watching the Signal Corps using rockets 
and roman candles. A wonderful sight. Reported Gen- 
eral Hunter is trying to get in communication with Gen- 
eral Crook who is in the mountains making for Staun- 
ton, the same point that we are headed for. Hospital in 
town, containing a few wounded Union soldiers. Held 
as prisoners, were re-captured. Among them was 
Charlie Avery, a member of our company, wounded 
through the chest. He surprised us by coming into our 
camp asking for his brother Jim, also a member of our 
company. Up to this time we did not know whether he 
was alive. Could not remain with us, was obliged to re- 
turn to the hospital. The weather hot, muggy, with 
heavy rain storms. Our shelter tents are poor protection 
in these hard storms, as the rain pours down. We try to 
keep as dry and as comfortable as we can. The boys 
keep in good spirits and do not growl very much. 

June 4th. Saturday morning. Up early and on the 
march, going on through the town. About ten miles up 
the pike is Mount Crawford, at which point the Shenan- 
doah River crosses the pike. The enemy have the mount 
strongly fortified, a commanding position. About three 
miles out of Harrisonburg we file to the left over a dirt 
road. The intention seems to be to flank the mount. We 
are now making for Port Republic, near which we were 
obliged to cross the Shenandoah River. Owing to the 
recent heavy rains it was very high, running swift. A 
canvas pontoon bridge was made by drawing canvas over 
boat frames which had been made and brought along. 
The boats were made and placed in the river, when the 
bridge was completed like any pontoon bridge, except 
the canvas boats. (The first and only ones I ever saw, and 

66 



was the only time I ever saw that one used.) It was a 
frail thing for an army to cross on. General Hunter sat 
on his horse very close to the frail bridge, anxiously 
watching us cross, and shouting, - Men, break step." 
That would divide the weight while we were on the 
bridge. That seemed to be a duty that the General would 
not trust to any one else. (I well remember that scene.) 
As far as I know the army all passed over in safety The 
cavalry crossed at some other point. A young cavalry- 
man attempted to swim his horse across the river near the 
bridge, slipped or fell from his horse and was drowned. 
Many boys jumped in and dove for him. The high, swift- 
running, dirty water was too much for them. The Shen- 
andoah River was his grave, as it was the grave of many 
other Union soldiers. Some were members of our regi- 
ment, the 1 8th Connecticut. The enemy was driven out 
of Port Republic, losing a large wagon train filled with 
supplies, captured by our cavalry. The supplies were dis- 
tributed to us. A number of packages of coffee came to 
our company, which gave to us a great surprise as they 
were put up in our home town by Selden & Willard, 
Norwich, Conn. Here we were, one hundred miles from 
our base of supplies, in the enemy's country. It has often 
been reported that there are people in the North getting 
rich by running supplies through the blockade. These 
people are anxious to prolong the war when they should 
remember that every battle kills a soldier, and by the help 
they give to the foes. These soldier boys have dear 
friends at home. Passed on through Port Republic, 
camping near the town. Hunter forced the enemy to 
leave Mount Crawford and change front. Judging from 
what we can learn the enemy is in strong force in our 
front. Night sets in dark and raining. 

67 



June 5th. Late last night our company detailed for 
picket duty. Located at the ford, near the town. It was 
a fearful, dark, rainy night. Every man was on duty and 
on the alert all night. By order of General Hunter a 
large woolen mill was burned this morning. I noticed a 
number of women were crying as the mill burned. It 
had been used to make cloth for the South. Death and 
destruction follows in the path of war. This is a quiet 
Sunday morning in old Connecticut. Here a battle is 
about to begin. Came ofif picket, ordered to join the 
regiment. After a forced march, about six miles, over- 
took the regiment, taking our position in the line. Soon 
skirmish firing began and grew hot. Our boys driving 
the Rebs as we advanced. About 7 A. M. the enemy 
opened fire on our line with batteries well posted on high 
hills, distance about two miles, getting range on our colors. 
At the time we were advancing by division front, when 
the shells began to come lively. Our Colonel's voice rang 
out clear " By division, into line, right and left, half 
wheel, forward, double quick." The command was 
quickly executed as the regiment advanced in line 
through the open lots, taking the extreme right of the 
line of battle. We could plainly see all that was taking 
place in the open country. The enemy's line of battle 
was formed in a wooded field at the top of the highest 
hills. We were forced to jump brooks, some quite wide, 
and climb over fences, all this time under fire. We could 
not return the fire because of our skirmish line in our 
front, between us and the enemy. 

Reaching the foot of the hill on which the enemy was 
posted, we were ordered to crawl up it on our hands and 
knees. Reaching the brow we were ordered to rise, at 
the same time the enemy poured a deadly volley into our 

68 



ranks^ A number fell, and the stock of my gun was shot 

ttv u' r 'T' '" ' ^'^^^^ ''' ^^^ --y^n the wood 
they broke and ran. As we poured a sharp fire into thei 
ranks, they left their first line of earthworks and fell back 
to the second. We continued the charge on through the 
woods, commg out into an open lot Our Colonel beine 
mounted, saw the second line of earthworks in the edee 
of another wooded field, commanded a halt, which was 
done after a while. Then we were ordered to fall back 
and re-form in the edge of the woods and to wait for 
orders. My gun having been shot and no good, I picked 
up another one on the field. I was very sorry to lose the 
old musket. A number of our boys had fallen The 
enemy was strongly posted on another hill across an 
open field which we must charge through in order to 
get at them. 

Orders came for us to take their works. A charge was 
agam ordered, but we were ordered to fall back and re- 
form. Another attempt was made to capture the works. 
Owing to our heavy loss the Colonel ordered us to fall 
back. Our regiment was holding the extreme right of 
the line. In the second charge across the field a bullet 
pierced my tin coffee cup, hanging on my haversack, 
making, as the boys said, two close calls for me. After 
the second charge our Colonel called for a battery, posted 
it in a good position on our right, where it did great 
execution. The enemy attempted to take the battery but 
we drove them back. A third charge was ordered across 
the open field. We were again obliged to fall back. 
The enemy's fire was too hot for us and we were losing 
many good fellows. In the third charge the colors went 
to the ground, the corporal of the color-guard, who was 



69 



carrying them, being shot down. I jumped and picked 
up the flag, waving it and holding it up. 

Later, orders came to prepare for another charge on 
the enemy's earth works. A desperate effort must be made 
to capture those works. As a signal, a cheer would ring 
out from the left of the line, extending to the right, for the 
entire length of the line, to charge. It was quickly done 
and the battle was won. 

The enemy threw down their arms and were pris- 
oners. In the fourth and final charge, the Confederate 
commander, Major General Wm. E. Jones, was killed. 
He was known as Billy Jones. I saw the dead com- 
mander lying on the field, he having been shot through 
the forehead. I also saw the flag of truce when the Con- 
federates came for the body. I spoke to the escort, they 
telling me who the dead General was. 

The day had been a long, hard one. We were under 
fire from 7 A. M. to 5 P. M. Sorrow came to us over our 
loss, but we must have something to eat in order to keep 
up.' I carried several canteens over to the Shenandoah 
River, filled them. On my return I stopped to see a 
young wounded Confederate. Bathed his wound on his 
foot with the water from my own canteen. He thanked 
me kindly as he lay on the ground, patiently waiting for 
his turn to be cared for. After having rations I picked 
up a few blankets, visited the field hospital, and covered 
our boys over with them, as the nights were cool. It was 
a sickening sight to me. No more desire to visit a field 
hospital after a battle. I made my way back to our com- 
pany in the dark. Lay down on the battle field for the 
night, for rest and sleep. Dead and wounded around us. 
June 6th. Up early this clear, hot morning. Dur- 
ing the night the wounded had been removed and cared 

70 



for, and the dead buried. Our company's loss, Uventy 
killed and wounded. The loss in the regiment, one hun- 
dred and thirty killed and wounded. None taken pris- 
oners. The color-sergeants and the guard were all killed 
or wounded except one. They were a part of our com- 
pany, as we were the color company. Very sad over our 
loss. Such is the life of a soldier. Rations running very 
low. 

This morning, fifty rounds of cartridges given to 
each man, forty for our boxes, ten for our pockets. Left 
the battle field. Again on the march, rather slow, 
through wood-land, wondering what was in store for us. 
After being under way for about two hours, suddenly, 
great cheering was heard. The regiment came to a halt 
as the cheers came nearer to us. Reports came to us by 
scouts that our cavalry was in possession of Staunton, 
where we expected to meet with stubborn resistance. We 
were soon pushing for the town, said to be twelve miles 
away, at the upper end of the Shenandoah Valley. The 
march takes us over a rough, stony, hilly road, sometimes 
through the lots, giving up the roads to the artillery and 
wagon train. As we marched along there was much to be 
seen by inquisitive Yankees. We entered the town 
from the north, passing through what seemed to be the 
main street, going into camp on the west side. 

The scenery in this vicinity is grand. Town located 
on hills and hillsides. Reminds us somewhat of our home 
town, Norwich, Connecticut. We are soldiers, doing 
hard service for our country in a cruel war, but for all 
that we cannot help but take in the fine scenery. We are 
living close to the earth, as we eat and sleep on the 
ground. We try to improve every opportunity to take a 
bath, wash our clothes, and swim. At this time the 

71 



weather is very hot, dry, and dusty, which seems to come 
very soon after the rain. Thunderstorms, in this valley, 
are very fierce at times. 

June yth. Called up very early this morning. After 
a light breakfast, ordered to fall into line. All sorts of 
reports are in circulation, that guerillas and bush- 
whackers infest this section. We are one hundred miles 
from our base of supplies, right in the enemy's country. 
Our work today is to destroy the Virginia Central Rail- 
road by burning bridges and other property. It is hard 
work, tearing up the track and ties. After being out on 
the line all day we did not see any armed rebs. A guerilla 
chief, known as Mudwall Jackson, is reported to be in 
this vicinity. Late this afternoon we returned to town 
and camp for the night. We put in a hard day's work 
and were glad to have night come, for we needed the 
sleep and rest. The ground makes a good bed. 

June 8th. Again routed out early. Into line on the 
march through town to continue our work of destruction. 
Piling up ties, place the rails on top, set fire to the ties. 
When the rails become hot in the center, they warp or 
bend, making them useless. The march out of town, 
along the railroad, destroying it, makes very hard work 
for us, as we put in a long day, and not very much food. 
We manage to pick up some corn meal and a little flour, 
which we make into pan-cakes, called by the boys, Toe- 
Jam. Some of the boys received bruises and jams in the 
work on the railroad. There is much kicking over the 
hard work. 

In camp tonight, talking over the events of the day, 
wondering what the morrow has in store for us. Many 
buildings and much property in town have been de- 
stroyed by fire, by order of General Hunter. Many 

72 



of the women look sad and do much weeping over the 
destruction that is going on. We feel that the South 
brought on the war and the State of Virginia is paying 
dear for her part. The loss of our good boys brings us 
many sad hours. We cannot help think, and wonder who 
will be the next one to give his life for our country. 

June gth. This morning still finds us at Staunton. 
Called out early. Marched through the town. Destruc- 
tion goes on. It certainly looks bad for this town. It 
seems to be a part of war. A large Confederate hospital 
is located here, also a retreat for the insane. Among 
the buildings destroyed are large tobacco warehouses, 
much of the contents thrown into the streets. Tobacco 
plenty. Many of our boys carried much of it into the 
Confederate hospital, giving it to the poor fellows con- 
fined there. They were pleased and thankful, some even 
saying they were glad we came, so I was informed by those 
who went to the hospital. 

Our regiment scouting through the country along the 
line of the railroad, picking up horses and cattle wherever 
we found them. Also protect the boys of the 5th New 
York Heavy Artillery who were busy destroying the rail- 
road. By the time we leave here there won't be much 
left in this vicinity. 

Our scouts manage to find some meal and flour. We 
are getting a part of our living in this vicinity. We use 
a half of a canteen for a frying pan, a stick for a handle, 
so we have pancakes, or, as the boys call them, toe-jam, 
and fresh meat. The buildings destroyed in town and 
along the line of the railroad were factories and ware- 
houses, and some public buildings. To my knowledge 
no dwelling houses were burned up. In camp tonight. 

June lOth. General Crook joined forces here with 

73 



Hunter, coming into town from the west. It is now re- 
ported that the combined forces numbered about eighteen 
thousand and that we will advance on to Lynchburg. All 
sick and wounded who can be moved, including two thou- 
sand prisoners, will be sent with guards to Beckley, West 
Virginia, one hundred miles to the northwest. After they 
were well under way the army began its march, going 
to the southeast of the town. The day a hot one, and very 
dusty as we marched over the rough roads. The boys 
keep up good courage, taking in the points of interest, and 
at the same time going farther into the enemy's country. 
All cattle and horses that can be found are taken in 
charge by the Quartermaster's Department. Some of the 
cattle are butchered in the night, the meat given to us in 
the early morning. If we have time, we fry or broil it 
before we begin our march. 

After a march of about twenty miles, we stop for the 
night. The next town that we are headed for is Lexing- 
ton. We take notice and comment on the various move- 
ments of the army and can most generally tell when the 
enemy is near and in force. 

June Ilth. Up and on the march by daylight. After 
a few hours marching, judging by the cannonading, there 
is hot work going on. We are pushing on for Lexington. 
Find the town is located on the south side of the James 
River. The enemy burned the bridge, delayed our cross- 
ing. The Engineer Corps provided a way for us to 
cross on the ruins of the bridge. The cavalry and artil- 
lery crossed at some other point. The Engineer Corps 
used lumber from nearby buildings to make the bridge 
safe for us to cross. 

At this point we received a great surprise. A wagon 
train overtook us with supplies. Our rations at this time 

74 



were very low. The enemy were run out of town. We 
go in camp on the east side. Lexington is a beautiful 
town. The scenery grand. Reported to us that the sound 
of Yankee guns had never been heard here before, or 
until today. 

Stonewall Jackson and many prominent rebel officers 
lie buried here in the town's cemetery. The Washington 
Military Institute is located here, the pride of old Vir- 
ginia. Governor Letcher resides here. Many other 
fine residences are located here. The weather clear, but 
hot. Scouts are bringing in prisoners. Detailed for 
picket duty tonight. 

June I2th. Sunday. Came of¥ picket. General 
Hunter is applying the torch to many buildings. I 
watched them burn. Among them were the Washington 
Military Institute, and the home of Governor Letcher. 
It was a grand and awful sight to see so many buildings 
burning at the same time. A bronze statue of George 
Washington was removed from the front entrance and 
saved. It was put in one of the wagons, and in time was 
to be sent to Washington, D. C. After the fires were out 
I visited the ruins. The cavalry brought in to our lines 
many slaves, the owners trying to hide them in the sur- 
rounding mountains. They were a husky lot, and could 
run as fast as a horse. I saw them keep up with cavalry. 
Visited many points of interest in and around this fine 
looking town. 

June Ijth. A hot morning. All is quiet. Gave my 
clothes a good washing, hanging them on the bushes to 
dry. A good swim and bath while waiting for them to 
dry. Dry quickly in this climate. No change of rai- 
ment, only one suit, we are in light marching order. A 
soldier's life in the field is not always one of cleanliness, 

75 



marching in the dust and dirt, wading brooks and rivers, 
sleeping on the ground. 

Orders from the Colonel. I have been made a cor- 
poral, for bravery on the battlefield of Piedmont, June 
5th, 1864. So the orders read. I donned my chevrons 
for the honorable posish, 4th corporal, Company C, i8th 
Regiment, Connecticut Volunteers, at Lexington, Vir- 
ginia, June 13th, 1864. 

Marching orders received. We leave here to- 
morrow morning. 

June 14th. Called up by daylight. This morning 
a hot one. Must bid farewell to this town. The people 
will no doubt be pleased to see us leaving. We had a 
very quiet time here. Roads very dusty. Our scouts re- 
port the enemy in all directions. The boys are in good 
spirits as we go marching along, taking observations, 
looking for points of interest. Passed within four miles 
of Virginia Natural Bridge. Was in hopes that we 
could see it. These are rough, stony roads. After a 
hard march we reached the town of Buchanon, near high 
and lofty mountains. Here the enemy had burned the 
bridge. The Engineer and Pioneer Corps made the 
ruins strong enough for us to cross. We camp for the 
night in a wheat field. Thankful to stop for a rest, after 
marching about twenty-four miles. It looks to us as 
though we shall be obliged to climb the mountains to- 
morrow. The road leads in that direction. This is a 
wild looking country. The scenery grand. Very few 
people can be seen as we pass through the towns and vil- 
lages on the line of march, going farther in the enemy's 
country, and away from our base of supplies. It makes 
us feel that we are in for much hard work and marching. 



76 



June isth. Up and early on the march this hot 
morning. Going up the narrow road over the mountains 
we make very slow progress. The Rebs and bush- 
whackers have cut down large trees and fell them across 
the road. The Pioneer Corps are having hard work to 
clear the road. As we pass slowly along the bodies of 
dead Rebs are lying beside the road, having been killed 
by the advance scouts. They looked frightful, with their 
long black beards and white faces, in death. The road 
is very narrow and winding as we go on up the mountains. 
At the side of the road one can look away down into the 
valley and ravines. Army wagons can be seen down 
among the trees. We suppose they must have broken 
down and been pushed over to get them out of the way. 
It was cause enough to set the boys talking and to help 
make them forget their own troubles. A hard, tiresome 
march over the mountains, stopping for the night between 
the Peaks of Otter, having marched only fourteen miles. 
Orders are to keep very quiet and not make any fires. 
Must go without our coffee for the night. 

June lOth. Last night some member of our company 
started a small fire close to the root of a pine tree. It 
was decayed through the center, which quickly caught 
fire, the blaze shooting out at the top, like a high chim- 
ney. The tree being away up the mountain, the blaze 
could be seen for miles along the Lynchburg Valley. 
Attempts were made to put out the fire with dirt. 

This morning finds us in the mountains, between the 
Peaks of Otter, the highest mountains in Virginia. Our 
signal corps climbed to the top of one of the peaks. We 
get an early start, on down the mountain over a rough 
stony road. At the same time we get a grand view of the 

77 



surrounding country. It certainly is fine. Good grow- 
ing crops in all directions. Passed through a large pea- 
nut field. The vines were fine but not much left of them 
after the army had passed through the field. The ad- 
vance are skirmishing, as we can plainly hear. Fifteen 
miles from the Peaks of Otter, we pass through the town 
of Liberty, after a hot, dusty march. Out on the Lynch- 
burg Pike we go. Hungry, tired, foot-sore, we stop for 
the night in a cornfield, near New London, after a march 
of about twenty-four miles. Sharp skirmishing kept up 
all day, showing the enemy is contesting our advance on 
Lynchburg. We hear it reported that the Yankee army 
has never visited this section of Virginia before. With 
us, it is now on for Lynchburg, which we seem confident 
that we can capture. We hope so. 

June IJth. A cornfield was a rough place to sleep 
for a night, and try to rest. Up early this morning. 
After a hasty feed, again on the march, along the main 
pike to Lynchburg. Our advance is slow most of the 
time, as we drive the enemy along. At times it is hot 
work. General Hunter, for reasons best known to him- 
self, has ordered the burning up of many fine old Vir- 
ginia mansions with all the contents. Many fine appear- 
ing ladies weep while their homes are burning. All they 
can do is to look on. One cannot help but feel sorry for 
them. That is cruel war. When told it was done b> 
order of the General, I heard one woman say, *' I would 
like to pull the General's nose." There were some great 
fires along that Lynchburg Pike. One report was that 
our men had been fired on from the houses that were 
burned. They were not all burned, along the pike. It is 
fight as we advance, at times, making a forced march. 
Late this P. M. we go into battle near Lynchburg. A 

78 



hot one. The enemy routed, retire to their main earth- 
works, near town. We capture two field pieces and a 
number of prisoners. Darkness put an end to the fight. 
The battle is known to us as Quaker Church, four miles 
from Lynchburg. A line of battle having been formed, 
our guns were stacked, with orders to keep close in line. 
Getting a little feed, we dropped down on the ground 
to try and get a little sleep and rest. In front of Lynch- 
burg, Virginia. 

June 1 8th. Not much sleep and rest for us last night. 
Pickets kept up a ceaseless firing, with an occasional shell 
dropping in our midst. Could also hear the trains run- 
ning into town all night. Beating of drums, pounding 
and hammering, and much noise. Estimated our lines 
are formed within three miles of the town. Our regi- 
ment holds the extreme left of the line. In the early 
morning the enemy dropped a shell in our midst. Two 
of our boys were severely wounded, one having his leg 
shattered, from which he later died. With us on the left 
was Captain Snow, with his Maryland Battery, which we 
had to support. The enemy made two attempts to take 
the battery. We charged them and drove them back into 
their earthworks both times. That battery did good serv- 
ice, as we could see, when the shells exploded in their 
works. 

Lieutenant Robert Kerr, Company A, had command 
of our- skirmish line. A cool, brave man in charge of a 
responsible duty, which he performed well. Our 
national flag was made fast to the roof of a large barn, 
in plain view of the enemy. They tried to dislodge it. 
It afforded us some amusement as we watched them 
waste their ammunition. Later, when they ceased firing, 
it was taken down. Our Colonel was wounded in the 

79 



r^ 



neck by a piece of shell. While painful, it was not very 
severe. He left the field, putting us under the command 
of Major Peale, our Lieutenant-Colonel being a prisoner 
at Richmond. At this point, on the left of the line, in 
our rear, was a peach orchard. So severe was the firing 
of the enemy that hardly a tree escaped the enemy's shells, 
some being cut down and others had limbs cut off, while 
many bore marks. 

Our regiment, when not called up to protect the 
battery, was lying down in a road, which afforded us 
protection. We did lie close to the ground and were 
protected by a two foot knoll of gravel. At one time 
the enemy tried to sneak through a ravine to get our 
battery. We were ordered to charge them. As they fell 
back we followed them, until we were under a cross fire 
by our own men and the enemy. Our boys, seeing our 
colors, ceased firing, as we came to a halt, when orders 
were given to right face, and forward, by file right, 
double quick, which soon brought us in our position, just 
in the rear of the battery. We put in a hard day and were 
only holding our position, nothing gained. Supplies and 
ammunition running very low. No prospect of help as 
far as we could learn, and night coming on. 

Orders received that we fall back tonight. We are 
a sick, tired, discouraged lot of Yankee soldiers. After 
dark the army began the return march. Our regiment 
detailed for the rear guard. We cannot leave our posi- 
tion until the army is well under way. Our duty is a 
very dangerous one. 

June igth. Last night, by a forced march, we over- 
took the army. It was a fearful night. Dark, a part of 
the time marching over rough roads, through lots, wad- 
ing small streams, fighting back the rebel cavalry. Glad 

80 



when daylight came, but no time to stop for rest this hot 
Sunday morning. Tired, foot-sore, hungry, and about 
played out, but must keep pushing on or be taken a pris- 
oner. The cavalry are now covering the rear. Again 
passed through Liberty. A few miles from town, our 
regiment ordered to lie down behind a hill in ambush, to 
support the cavalry, they having got in the rear of the 
enemy. After a sharp fight they were routed, and many 
made prisoners. After these events we had a short rest 
and a feed of fresh meat. Detailed for guard with the 
wagon train for tonight. 

June 20th. A hot morning. Traveled all night. 
Most of the time at a lively gait, at times on the run, to 
keep with the wagons and artillery. Sometimes we 
would hang on to the tailboards in order to keep up. 
Don't know how many miles we have covered since we 
left in front of Lynchburg. Stopped this morning for 
rest and rations, which consist only of fresh meat, broiled 
and fried. We have been informed that this part of 
Virginia is known as the Blue Gap country. We have 
not stopped long enough to learn the names of the places 
that we pass through. We are along the line of a rail- 
road leading to Lynchburg. This railroad, its bridges, 
and property, are destroyed as we go along. Some of the 
bridges are over deep ravines. When the bridge is gone, 
the cars are run over into the deep ravines. They go 
down with a great crash. 

Constant skirmishing is kept with the rear guard and 
the enemy. The rear guard reports that many of our boys 
are falling into the hands of the rebels, as they arc worn 
out and cannot keep up with the army. The suffering of 
our men is something fierce. Clothing and shoes are 
wearing out. Many are barefoot while we go pushing 
6 81 



over these rough roads. We are still guarding the wagon 
train. At times we are obliged to trot in order to keep 
up. There is room in many of the wagons so that the 
guard might ride. It is against orders. Soldiers must 
obey orders. On the road we pass a few houses once in 
a while. Inhabitants very few in this rough country. 
Mostly old men, women, and children. Young men are 
in the rebel army. These people look as though they 
were suffering for the southern cause. Very little forage 
can be found in this mountainous country. 

June 2lst. After an all night's march, we reach the 
town of Salem, Roanoke county, Virginia, located near 
the mountains. The scenery good. After we came to a 
halt by the roadside, tired — worn out — hungry, lean- 
ing up against a rail fence, I soon fell asleep. Later I 
was awakened by the cavalry, then had to find my com- 
pany. By the buildings I should judge that this is a 
college town. Our regiment detailed as rear guard. 
Colonel Ely again in command, the wound in the neck 
having improved. Ordered, with a battery, to march 
back about one mile, pushing the enemy back and holding 
them in check while the army wagons and artillery 
passed through the gap near Salem, Blue Ridge Moun- 
tains. While we are holding the enemy in check our 
Colonel acts as though he was nervous. If the enemy is 
strong enough, we may get cut off and perhaps captured 
before our turn comes to march through the gap, we 
are so far in the rear with the battery. Late in the day 
orders came for us to march on through the gap into the 
mountains where we were surprised to see some of the 
wagons and a battery badly damaged. A portion of the 
train was not guarded when a dash was made by gueril- 
las who were in ambush in the woods. A detachment 

82 



of our cavalry was soon on the ground with the Spencer 
carbine, routed and captured a number of the guerillas. 
Reported we are headed for a place called New Castled 
After a short rest we received a small piece of fresh meat. 
Pushing along, expecting to stop for the night. Hungry 
and thirsty. Very little water to be found in these moun- 
tains. Footsore and very tired. Wonderful what men 
can endure. It is either push ahead or be left and made a 
prisoner. 

June 22nd. In camp late last night after a long hard 
march. A good night's rest. The ground for a bed and 
the sky for a covering. Sadly in need of rations. On the 
march pass the ruins of many army wagons being burned 
up to prevent them falling into the hands of the enemy. 
Many horses and mules are giving out, drop for the lack 
of feed and rest. It is hard pulling those wagons over 
these rough mountain roads. All horses and mules that 
cannot be driven or led are shot to prevent the enemy 
from getting them, as all they need is rest and feed for 
most of them. War is a cruel thing. I wish it was over. 

In conversation, while on the march, with Captain 
Meigs, Engineer Corps, he thought we ought to break up 
the gang of guerillas following in the rear. Asked us 
boys if we were ready to fight them, the answer was yes. 
Many are dropping out by the roadside, too weak and 
used up. Reported we march from ten to thirty-five 
miles a day. Clothing and shoes giving out. Very little 
forage can be found in these mountains and valleys. Our 
route takes us over the Potts Mountains, very high. Our 
suffering is intense, as many are barefooted. 

Just at dark we reach the town of New Castle and go 
into camp for the night. 

Thankful that we are to get a night's rest. Two of 



83 



our company found a bag of flour. It was portioned out 
to each member. Mixed with water we had pan-cakes 
(toe-jam). We have plenty of coffee, no sugar. A little 
coffee goes a good ways. Some of our boys stole a bag of 
coffee from General Sullivan's headquarters. He was 
our division commander. Of course it could not be 
found, as it found its way in many haversacks. 

June 2jd. Left New Castle very early this hot morn- 
ing. No air in these valleys of Virginia and West Vir- 
ginia. Most of our rations consist of fresh meat. It is 
brought in to us in the night and cooked in the night, 
broiled on the end of a ramrod. It is hard to keep out of 
our minds, but is generally believed that we are eating 
horse and mule meat. When we left Cedar Creek on this 
raid, General Hunter informed us that we might be 
obliged to eat horse flesh before our return. At that time 
we were ordered to be careful of our rations. 

All the roads in the mountains and valleys are bad, 
hard for our feet. It is now thought that we are in the 
Alleghany Mountains. In spite of all our hardships we 
cannot help admiring the scenery. How we could enjoy 
it if we had plenty to eat and could take our time march- 
ing along. Up and down, over the mountains we go, 
until we reach the Sweet Springs, twenty-six miles from 
New Castle. Here we are to stop for the night. Large 
fine buildings here. A resort. Deserted. Generals 
Hunter and Crook located headquarters in a large, fine 
building. Our regiment stopping nearby. Rations for 
tonight, plenty of fresh meat and coffee. While we are 
all tired, foot-sore, and near used up, there is but little 
growling or fault-finding. Keep up courage very well as 
we endure these hardships, all for our country. While 
the days are hot, the nights are cool. 

84 



June 24th. Did not have to hurry up this morning. 
After breakfast, orders were, we remain here for the day. 
I started out to find water where I could take a bath. 
While hunting for such a place I met Sergeant Samuel 
Lee, Co. A, who was on the same errand. Together we 
hunted for water through the lots. We were rewarded 
by finding a small brook with a deep hole, close to the 
foot of a high mountain. A good clean place. Water 
enough for a good bath but not for a swim. Remained in 
the water for a long time. After the bath we visited the 
springs. Drank freely of its waters. Walked around the 
grounds and in some of the buildings. The soldiers 
raised havoc with the place. It was a fine property, 
badly ruined. At the springs we met our Colonel and 
Colonel Rodgers, 2nd Maryland. Our Colonel said, 
" Boys, you ought to find a place for a bath." We in- 
formed him, " We just came out of the water." 
"Where?" he asked. We pointed out the place across 
a lot. Thanking us, they made tracks for the place. We 
lay down under the fine trees for a rest. This is certainly 
a beautiful place. On returning to the regiment, orders 
had been given that we leave in the early evening for an 
all night's march. It is done on account of the extreme 
heat. After a feed of fresh meat and coffee, line was 
formed and ready for the march. 

June 2^th. After an all night's march we stopped to 
rest at a place known as Dry Run, near the White Sul- 
phur Springs. Another severe march over bad mountain 
roads. Up to this morning reported we marched 
eighteen miles. Passed many horses and mules down and 
out. Poor things must be shot. Must die for the need 
of a rest and feed. Many wagons continue to be burned 
up. Many of the boys drop out, weak and faint, who will 

85 



be captured by the mountain guerillas following in the 
rear. So I was informed by a scout. The White Sul- 
phur Spring was another fine resort ruined as the results 
of the war. I am often reminded that death and destruc- 
tion follow the path of war. Our marching continues, on 
across the Green Brier valley. Waded seven rivers, as 
we supposed. Later we learned that it was all one river, 
the Green Brier, and a very zig-zag one at that. This 
is known as the Green Brier country. It is surely rightly 
named. I never saw such a quantity or such high green 
briers. We try to observe all these points of interest as 
we go pushing along but we cannot forget our suffering, 
and it is all for our country. It certainly is a fearful 
time as we tramp on, through and over these mountains. 

Reported that the next town we are headed for is 
Lewisburg. It is also claimed the town is in possession 
of the enemy. Later reports come that our advance has 
the town. Four miles from the town we found General 
Crook's division in camp. We file from the road and 
go into camp. Eighteen miles from Dry Run and thirty- 
six from Sweet Springs. Almost a continuous march. 
Foot-sore, tired, hungry. The lack of rations is 
getting to be a serious thing to men as near played out as 
we are. Report comes, supply wagons are on the way to 
meet us. We are glad to get out of that rough green- 
brier country. I am detailed for picket duty tonight. It 
is a serious thing when one is so near played out. Well, 
this is war, we are in it until it closes, no matter how long 
it may last. 

June 26th. Lewisburg, West Virginia. Very early 
on the march. Nothing to eat except a cup of hot, black 
coffee, on a hot morning. Dragging ourselves along. 
Trying to keep up our courage. Our next stopping place 

86 



will be Meadow Bluff, where we expect to find rations. 
After a slow, tiresome march over mountains, we came 
to a halt at Meadow Bluff. 

Rations of fresh meat were given to us. Remained 
here six hours. Very little water and very poor. Late 
this afternoon we again began to march. After dark, 
small fires were made along the roadside. It made us 
think that the advance was in camp, so the boys would 
take courage and push along. Fifteen miles from 
Meadow Bluff, along in the night, we came to a halt, 
dropped on the ground, and were soon asleep. 

June 2Jth. Again on the march. I will be thankful 
if I can hold out until we get rations. Progress is very 
slow over these mountains. Roads are badly washed by 
the heavy rains. This is no time to repair roads. They 
are very dangerous, not only for the men, but also for the 
poor horses and mules drawing the cannons and heavy 
army wagons. Very few houses and not much settlement 
along these mountain roads, so that we see very few 
people. 

After a forced march, about eighteen miles, came to 
a halt at the foot of the mountains. In the distance we 
saw what looked like wagons coming towards us. It 
proved to be farm wagons. The farmers offered their 
services to bring us rations. How thankful we were to 
meet them. Each man received two hardtack and a small 
piece of fresh meat. We were a foot-sore, hungry, 
ragged, dirty crowd of Uncle Sam's soldiers. Our suffer- 
ing has been intense, over the mountains. The farmers 
informed us it was reported that Hunter's army was 
starving in the mountains. Raining very hard tonight. 

June 28th. Again on the march this hot, muggy 
morning. Still climbing the mountains. After a march, 

87 



about twelve miles, came to a halt. Do not know the 
name of this section of Virginia. At this point rations 
are piled up by the roadside. Waiting for our turn to be 
supplied, which was slow work. Becoming impatient 
and could not wait, some of the boys made a raid on the 
supplies, helped themselves. After a good feed of bacon, 
hardtack, and coffee, we felt much better. After a short 
rest we are again on the march, taking more interest in 
the mountains and scenery. After a march reported to 
be nine miles, we camp for the night well up the moun- 
tains. Don't know the name of the place. Reported we 
are headed for the New River and Gauley Bridge, West 
Virginia. 

June zgth. Up very early this morning and on the 
march. A hot, muggy morn. After being under way 
about two hours, we could hear in the distance the pop- 
ping of guns. Sounded like skirmishing firing. We 
thought there was music ahead for us. We kept pushing 
on. After a time the road rounded a curve on the moun- 
tains, where we could see ahead for a short distance. We 
could see the men leave the road and some running back. 
As we came near the point, saw that it was a cliff, a great 
overhanging rock. We learned that it was known as the 
Hawk's Nest, giving a grand view of the New River, 
the mountains and valleys. We were allowed a look and 
permission to shoot, and listen to the wonderful echo our 
old muskets made. The view was something grand and 
awful. Shall never forget that scene. We learned there 
was a legend connected with its history. Indian lovers 
jumped from the cliff because the father, a chief, would 
not let his daughter marry the man of her choice. The 
story was told us by people living near. 

After a time we began to descend the mountains, 

88 



which I learned were the Gauley Mountains. At the 
foot of the mountains we came to a halt at the Gauley 
River, the bridge having been destroyed at the breaking 
out of the war, when General Rosencrans drove the rebel 
General, Robert E. Lee, out of West Virginia. We went 
up the river a short distance, where we managed to cross. 
The New River and the Gauley meet at this point and 
form the Great Kanawah River. A short distance from 
the Gauley River, on the bank of the Kanawah River, an 
ideal spot, camp was located. At this point rations had 
been stored for Hunter's hungr\- army. Good bacon, salt 
beef, salt pork, rice, beans, coffee, sugar, hardtack. Good 
water. Fine place for bathing. The Kanawah River 
was as clear as cr}stal. Plent>' to eat, a chance to bathe, 
wash our clothes, rest, made a great improvement in our 
condition in a very short time. This is a very interesting 
point here, as we learn its history from the old residents. 
They seem pleased to meet us and give us all the par- 
ticulars about the location. Great loft\" mountains on 
each side of the rivers. More inhabitants here than we 
have seen in any place for a long time. 

June 30th. Up ver\^ early this fine morning. A 
good bath in the waters of the Great Kanawah. A good 
place to dry our clothes on the bushes. We remain in 
water for a long time. So refreshing and good. At this 
point a great battle had taken place when General Rosen- 
crans drove the rebels out of West Virginia, who were 
under the command of General Robert E. Lee. The 
bed of the river was covered wnth shells, solid shot, pieces 
of exploded shells, and bullets. I never saw anything 
like it before. This battle took place the first year of 
the war. I have a bullet picked from the bottom of that 
river by myself. Received orders to clean up for inspec- 

89 



tion, and muster for pay. Having a good time and a 
much needed rest. We are all in good health in our com- 
pany. Wonderful what men can endure. Thankful for 
a good rest in this quiet, ideal place where there is so 
much of interest. 

July 1st. This hot morning finds us still in our good 
camp on the banks of the Great Kanawah River, sur- 
rounded by lofty mountains. We have been informed 
of a fine spring of water over the river, upon a mountain. 
Some of the residents wish that we would try it and 
drink of its good waters. They offered us the use of a 
boat. We rowed over, taking a number of canteens. 
After a good drink from the spring coming out of the 
side of the mountain, we had a most wonderful view of 
this fine valley from another point. The pleasure we had 
paid us well for our trouble. At this point the river is 
very wide and deep. We were informed by old resi- 
dents that soundings had been made and failed to find 
any bottom. 

Wrote many letters from here. Weather fine for 
camp life. Shelter tents are all right in fine weather. 
Since the battle of Piedmont, June ^th, our company has 
been under the command of a sergeant. Two of our 
officers are prisoners, and one absent on account of 
wounds. 

Marching orders received. Must leave this ideal 
spot early tomorrow morning. Here we have plenty of 
good rations and a good rest. Late this afternoon a hard 
shower came up, a regular mountain shower. The 
clouds broke loose right over this spot. So hot we don't 
mind it very much, will soon dry up. It all comes in the 
life of a soldier. 



90 



July 2nd. Routed out early this morning, a hot one. 
Packed up, ready to march. We bid farewell to our 
good camp, where we received so much pleasure in this 
section of West Virginia. After a march of twenty-six 
miles over a very rough, stony road, along the banks of 
the Kanawah River, we came to a halt at a place known 
as Camp Piatt, near the river. The march was a hot one, 
causing much suffering to the men. No air in this valley. 

Informed we take boat at this point for Parkersburg, 
West Virginia. Rations very plenty at this point. All 
horses and wagons are to be sent overland, a distance 
of one hundred miles. Waiting for the boats to arrive. 

July jd. No boats showed up last night. This 
morning finds us still waiting at Camp Piatt. Yester- 
day's march was a hard one. We are resting while wait- 
ing. Up and down hill over these old stony roads makes 
a fellow tired and used up. At noon two boats arrived. 
They had large stern wheels and flat bottoms. The first 
I ever saw. About two o'clock we marched on board 
and were soon under way, leaving Camp Piatt, sailing 
on down the Kanawah. Weather fine and we were en- 
joying the trip. A pleasant change. Scenery grand on 
the river through this mountainous country. Salt, iron, 
coal, in these mountains along each side of the river. 
The boats are going very slow down the river. We are 
in no hurry. We make good use of the time, eating and 
sleeping whenever we feel like it. Night coming on, 
reported we will tie up for the night and start by daylight 
tomorrow morning. 

July 4th, The day we celebrate. At dark last night 
the boat tied up at Charleston. Went ashore for a while. 
The town is located on a bluff, which we had to climb 
to reach it. As we saw it in the dark, it was a dirty 

91 



looking place. Perhaps because it was a mining town. 
The boat left at daylight, going on, down the river. The 
boat being flat bottomed, to sail in shallow water, we 
came near tipping the thing over as we made a rush to 
one side, something having attracted our attention. The 
officers of the boat let out a yell "Trim ship I" and 
then explained that we must not do such a thing. We 
got our lesson, the way the boat tipped. We were care- 
ful after that. 

Having a good time, as the boat goes slowly down 
the river, taking in all the points of interest. As we are 
near the Ohio River we pass Point Pleasant, on the Vir- 
ginia side. Here we leave the Kanawah River and are 
out on the O-hi-o. Surprised when the boat headed 
down the river, as we supposed we were going up. After 
a run down the Ohio, about four miles, we landed at 
Gallipolis, and were ordered to go ashore. In the early 
morning, on the Kanawah River, we were allowed to 
celebrate for a while, by discharging our muskets. 

At Gallipolis, Ohio, we were ordered to wait for a 
larger boat to take us up the river. Here the people 
were very kind, tried to make our stay happy. I bought 
a quart tin pail to use, taking the place of the one shot 
through at the battle of Piedmont. It had a cover, bail- 
handle. Up to this time I had used an old fruit can to 
make coffee in. While waiting for the boat, conversed 
with the people, who were very kind to us. Informed us 
it was reported Hunter's army was starving in the moun- 
tains of West Virginia. He was censured by the people 
and the press. It was also reported he could have taken 
Lynchburg, had he got there the day before. That could 
have been done by not stopping so long at Staunton and 
Lexington. I often wonder whether a true history of 
Hunter's raid to Lynchburg would ever be written and 
published. 

92 



As soon as the large boat arrived we were quickly on 
board, going up the O-hi-o. This being a holiday, many 
people were along the banks celebrating. They greeted 
us with cheers, firing guns. Whenever the boats came 
near the shores, the people came with baskets, filled with 
bread, cakes, and pies, and threw to the soldiers. It was 
laughable to see us catch pies. As our hands caught one, 
they would generally go to pieces, making many a hearty 
laugh. The people seemed to enjoy the fun while watch- 
ing us eat whatever we caught. This trip up the Ohio 
River is very enjoyable, except when the boat runs 
aground or sticks on a sand bar. Then we were obliged 
to wade ashore, and perhaps walk from one to two miles, 
or until the boat got into deep water. At this time the 
river is very low. The boat seems to find all the sand- 
bars. Shouting and cheers greet us as we go up the 
river. The boats carrying the soldiers were overloaded. 
A memorable trip for the i8th Connecticut Regiment. 
Owing to the low water, the boat will tie up for the night. 
The rest and change is very beneficial, also gave us time 
to talk over the past two months. It am very thankful 
that I was able to keep my place in the ranks, and not 
obliged to fall by the wayside. It is claimed we marched 
over seven ranges of mountains. Passed through four 
battles, six skirmishes, since we left Martinsburg. At 
times our suffering has been intense. Feel that we have 
suffered much for our country. 

I am detailed to take charge of the guard for tonight, 
on board the boat, while tied up to the shore. Guard 
duty is kept up at all times. At times must act as a 
sergeant. 

July 5//i. At daylight this morning the boat got 
under way, pushing on up the great Ohio. Passed the 

93 



towns, Middlesport, Pomeroy, Syracuse, on the Ohio side, 
and Hartford, West Virginia. The farther up the river 
we go, have more trouble with low water. Sand bars 
are many. Again obliged to wade ashore. Later, go on 
board a smaller boat. It seems to make good time as it 
pushes along. Reported the boat will push along all 
night. This will close our second day on the water. A 
very pleasant and interesting trip. A good rest, good 
food, and very plenty. We are now in good condition, 
ready for duty. This will no doubt be our last night on 
board the boat. Another good rest, provided all things go 
well with us during the night. 

July 6th. A very pleasant morning. A good night's 
rest. The boat pushed along all night. Must be getting 
near our journey's end, or destination, Parkersburg. Soon 
after noon the boat grounded and held fast. We were 
again obliged to wade ashore, on the Ohio side. Later 
it was decided, we give up the boat and march on to 
Parkersburg, distance, from five to six miles. The march 
was over a good road through a fine country. The field 
officers, not having their horses, set the pace, which was 
very slow. We had them that time, for we could march 
right away from them. The horses and wagons were 
coming overland from Camp Piatt. During the march 
we were among friends. Some of the old settlers were 
from Connecticut. The old and young people were 
pleased to see Connecticut soldiers. We came to a halt 
quite often to talk to the people. One very old gentleman 
brought out an old powder horn which he claimed was 
once the property of General Putnam, of Revolutionary 
fame. He also made claim to be a descendant of General 
Putnam. 



94 



The march through Ohio was very pleasant, the 
people were so kind. Parkersburg was in West Virginia, 
we were in Ohio. Were carried over the river on boats. 
At this point, while waiting for a train, we received a 
large mail. I received two letters. A long time since we 
heard from home. Hunter's army took train at this place. 
A train of box cars was made ready for us, into which we 
were packed like a lot of animals. At times we were 
made to feel that we were cattle. Hope I can live to see 
the finish up of the war. This is a strenuous life. It's 
all for our country. 

July yth. Rain this morning. Late last night the 
train got under way. Kept running all night. Soon after 
daylight a number of us climbed to the top of the cars. I 
always did that when I could. It relieved the packed 
condition of the inside. I have slept many miles while 
riding on top of the old box cars. The B. & O. R. R. 
leads through a mountainous country, West Virginia. As 
we rounded a curve we saw a large hole in the mountain. 
There came a shout for every man to lie down as the train 
entered a tunnel, a long one. We lay face downward. 
Thought the heavy smoke from the engine would smother 
me. A fearful experience. Before I could get down into 
the car we entered another. As soon as we passed through 
the second one, I made haste, got inside. That was tunnel 
riding enough for me. 

Passed through Clarksburg and Grafton. Nothing 
important transpired during the run so far. The train 
moved along very slowly with its human freight, packed 
in filthy old box cars, soldiers who were fighting for our 
country. Wonderful how patient the men are, and what 
we have to endure. In the filthy box cars we came in con- 
tact with an army of pediculers. 

95 



July 8th. A bright morning in the mountains. Up 
to last evening we were two hundred miles from Parkers- 
burg. At nine o'clock this morning we arrived at Cum- 
berland after a very slow journey. We are now in Mary- 
land. A great coal mining country. Here we left the 
cars. Could not proceed any farther, the rebels having 
destroyed the railroad on beyond this place. Many 
bridges cross the mountain streams. Later in the day we 
march on to Cherry Run. Go into camp. Reported that 
the enemy, in strong force, are at Martinsburg, Late 
this P. M. I am detailed for picket duty. 

July Qth. This fine morning finds me on picket near 
Cherry Run, Mar3dand. Nothing important occurred 
so far. Late this afternoon relieved from picket. 
Ordered to join the regiment, it having left Cherry Run 
and advanced east along the line of the railroad, towards 
Martinsburg. After pushing along from six to eight 
miles, found headquarters located at Back Creek, the regi- 
ment having reached here in the early morning. Com- 
panies A and C were out on scout duty in the direction of 
Martinsburg. They returned late tonight without having 
found the enemy. The railroad is badly damaged. Busi- 
ness on the line is suspended east of Cumberland, as far as 
Harper's Ferry. This is an important railroad through 
to the west. It has met with great losses on account of the 
war. 

July loth. Back Creek, seven miles from Martins- 
burg. Some of the companies are out scouting about all 
the time. The enemy must be near. All sorts of rumors 
are in circulation. Our scouts do not run up against the 
Confederates. Bridge over this creek has been destroyed. 
When we cross it, must wade. We are well acquainted 
in this section, having done much duty along the line of 
this railroad. 

96 



July nth. Called up early this morning. Orders to 
march. Left Back Creek. After a slow march of about 
seven miles we came to Martinsburg. We call this our 
home town, having served in this section of the Shenan- 
doah Valley for two years. Marched through the town, 
meeting a few old friends. Camped on the south side, 
near the Winchester Pike. The enemy left town early 
this morning. Our knapsacks, with extra clothing, left 
here when we began our march up the valley in May, 
were taken by the rebs, so we lost our clothing that we 
expected to find here on our return. On picket. Strict 
orders for tonight, as the enemy is reported a short dis- 
tance south. Keep a sharp lookout. 

July I2th. A fine morning. When relieved from 
duty went to the large spring for a bath. Called on Mrs. 
Shults, my wash-woman. A fine old German woman. 
Always did my washing and the mending of my clothes. 
Her old father lived with her. Owned a small home on 
the Winchester Pike, close to the town. They were 
pleased to see the Union soldiers in the town again. So 
far all things remain quiet. The enemy must be in this 
section. 

July Ijth. Routed out by daylight. After rations, 
while waiting, wrote a few letters. The mail was most 
generally looked after by the Chaplain. Marching 
orders, " Fall in," came the command, line soon formed. 
Down through the town we go, out on the Harper's Ferry 
Pike. Weather fine. Soon take the route step, an easy 
gait. We take that step when there is no immediate 
danger of meeting the enemy. About ten miles out on the 
road we were surprised to meet our old commander, 
General Sigel, and stafif, with a large escort. He was 
headed west while we were going east. Nothing im- 
7 97 



portant occurred during our march over rough roads. 
Night coming on, we halt for the night within a few miles 
of Harper's Ferry. It is thought we have marched four- 
teen miles. 

July 14th. We have to turn out at daylight. Soon 
after rations, again in line and marching. We are getting 
very ragged. Many are barefooted. Clothes will wear 
out in this rough life. Pushing along. Marched over 
Bolivar Heights, down through Harper's Ferry, over the 
Potomac River on the railroad bridge, into Maryland, 
taking the river road along the canal through Sandy 
Hook, camping near Knoxville. A mail received. Very 
tired tonight. It is thought we have marched about fif- 
teen miles. Detailed for picket. 

July ISth, Came of¥ picket very early. A fine morn- 
ing. The army again on the march. Our regiment in the 
rear, waiting for orders. Passed through Knoxville, 
pushing on to Berlin, Maryland. Coming to a halt dis- 
covered the advance wading the Potomac River, over into 
Virginia, the Loudon Valley country. At this point there 
was a stony ridge running diagonal across the river. At 
low water it could be forded. At this time the water was 
about waist deep and the stones were very slippery. In 
order to keep our ammunition and rations dry we carried 
our equipments and haversacks fastened to the muzzle 
of our muskets, over our shoulder. Some of the boys lost 
their footing, went down under the water, getting a duck- 
ing. There was much laughing, joking, and shouting, in 
spite of the wetting we were all getting. On reaching 
the Virginia shore no time to halt, not even to stop and 
pour the water out of our shoes. Must push on in our wet 
clothes over dusty roads which soon formed a mud cover- 
ing. After a time our clothes began to dry as we marched 

98 



our 



on in the hot sun. the dirt dropping off. By night __. 
clothes were all dry and we were all in better spirits. 
Many reports are in circulation that we are following on 
after the rebs under the command of Jubal Earlv, who 
have been raiding into Maryland. Late tonight camp 
near Hillsborough. 

July lOth. Yesterday we had a long tedious march, 
putting in a hard day. Last night we were glad to drop 
on the ground for rest and sleep. This is a hot morning 
out here in the open fields. Our cavalry- boys brought in a 
captured rebel wagon train. The rebel teamsters were 
driving as directed by our boys who held guns in their 
hands. The teamsters knew what that meant. Orders 
came for us to move into the shaded woods which we 
found cool and fine. 

General David Hunter relieved of his command. 
General George Crook now our commander. The 8th 
Corps. Six pointed star. We are also known as the Army 
of the Shenandoah. 

July Ijth. Sunday morning. Late last night wc 
were ordered to march. Estimated we marched about 
five miles, when we came to a halt in a wooded field. Fine 
large trees. During the night we heard the rattling of the 
wheels of artillery and wagons, being driven ver\- rapid. 
going south. TTiis morning report reached us that it was 
the enemy's guns and wagons. No doubt there is hard 
work before us. Don't just know our present location ex- 
cept that we are somewhere in the Loudon Valley, Vir- 
ginia. Orders for Sunday morning inspecdon. It won't 
be a very clean one. After that duty was performed we 
rested and slept. Large stacks of grain were burned in 
this vicinity to prevent the enemy from getting. It made 
a hot fire and a great loss. It will no doubt cause much 

99 



suffering among the people. Women and children in 
these parts must suffer by the war which is a cruel thing. 
I am sorry for them. As soon as they hear the reports 
of the guns, they take to the cellars for protection. Shot 
and shell go through many houses that are in range of 
the guns. I have seen many houses that were damaged 
by the field guns. This Sunday night finds us in the 
woods, cool and good air, while the sun was red hot, out 
in the open. 

July 1 8th. Up and early on the march this fine morn- 
ing. Pushing on to the south in the direction of Snicker's 
Gap, Blue Ridge Mountains, eighteen miles south of 
Harper's Ferry. We cannot tell what an hour may bring 
forth. As we approach Snicker's Gap we came to a halt. 
Here we meet a part of the 6th Corps, Army of the Poto- 
mac, and a division under Colonel Mulligan, the Colonel 
of the 23d Illinois Regiment. After a few hours' halt up 
the side of the mountains came orders to advance slowly 
through Snicker's Gap. Then proceeded slowly down the 
west side of the mountains on towards the Shenandoah 
River. A battle seems to be imminent. Ordered to wade 
the river. At that point the river was waist deep. When 
over, a line was quickly formed. Ordered to lie down, 
our clothes being wet. Before our division was all over, 
the enemy made a furious attack on us from the woods, 
in our front and on our right. Our regiment had the ex- 
treme right of the line. We fought them desperately and 
were losing many of our boys. We held on as we expected 
help from the 6th Corps and Mulligan's division, which 
did not come. We saw plainly the enemy massing a large 
force on our right, as our regiment was holding that point. 
Our Colonel saw the dangerous position that we were try- 
ing to hold and no prospect of help, ordered left face, and 

100 



to re-cross the river under a galling fire of musketry and 
cannon. It was a fearful thing to re-cross that river, as it 
was deep in places. Some of our boys who were wounded, 
drowned as they attempted to re-cross before reaching the 
ford, or the place where we crossed. In this battle it was 
claimed the rebs used explosive bullets on us. The oppo- 
site bank where I crossed was about eight feet high, very 
slippery, made so by the men who had climbed up before 
me. As I made my way almost to the top of the bank, 
pulling myself up by the bushes, an explosive bullet struck 
near me. The report and the fire from it caused me to 
loose my hold on the bushes and slip down the bank into 
the river. At that time I thought I was a goner. Soaking 
wet, I made another attempt to reach the top of the bank 
and was successful. 

We were then forced to ascend through a large open 
field under fire. Shot and shell flew furiously. General 
Wright finally ordered a battery into position to protect 
us. As seen by the men in the ranks, it was strange that a 
small force was ordered over that river to cope with 
Early's force, and the 6th Corps near by. 

Camp tonight at Snicker's Gap with the 6th Corps. 
Discussed the events of the day. Discouraged and mad, 
saying hard things about General Wright, Commander of 
the 6th Corps. Some things are hard to understand in the 
life of a soldier. 

July iQth. This hot morning finds us at Snicker's 
Gap. Everything quiet. The enemy on one side of the 
river and we the other. Both armies where we see one 
another. Later in the day batteries were put in position 
on both sides, and occasionally open fire on one another. 
One shell from the enemy seemed to go farther than any 
other, as I saw it explode in the ranks of the 6th Corps. 

101 



Several were wounded. They were over a hill and sup- 
posed to be out of range of the enemy. The batteries in 
position make us feel a little uneasy. Don't know when a 
shell may come over our way, for we are in plain sight of 
the enemy. Night coming on finds us at Snicker's Gap. 
Hope for a quiet night, a good rest, and sleep. 

July 20th. Called up early, this hot, muggy morn- 
ing. The 6th Corps early on the move. Watching them 
cross the Shenandoah River at Snicker's Ford. No enemy 
in sight. We follow on after the 6th Corps. As we wade 
the river I think it was never known to rain harder. We 
were soaked from head to foot. Crossing the river we 
filed to the right, going down the river into camp on the 
battlefield of the i8th, two days before. Looking over the 
field we were surprised to see that the enemy had not 
decently buried our dead who fell into their hands. Our 
boys gave them a decent burial. 

Camp in the woods that were occupied by the enemy 
during the battle. Raining very hard. We build a large 
campfire which helps to keep us more comfortable dur- 
ing the night. 

July 2 1st. The sun came up this morning bright and 
warm. The morning finds us in the same woods where we 
passed the night. A foraging party, sent out last night 
from our regiment, returned with flour, bacon, hams. 
The officers appropriated the best sugar-cured hams. 
Late in the night the hams were taken from the officers' 
mess. No one seemed to know what became of them. 
Officers put up a great kick, were mad through and 
through. Of course the boys were all innocent. Punish- 
ment was in store for the rascals who stole the hams. A 
fine nice piece found its way into my haversack. I did 
not put it there but thought I could guess who did. I 
did not ask any questions. It sure was good to eat. 

102 



I visited the river to take a look at the place where we 
crossed during the battle of the i8th. Thought it another 
case of mismanagement, although it did seem at times that 
men must be sacrificed in order to find out the plans and 
location of the enemy. No troops should have crossed 
that river at the time without being well supported. 
That was the way we felt about it. The bed of the river 
was the grave of some of our boys. Marching orders for 
early tomorrow morning. Hope to get a good night's rest. 

July 22d. Early on the march. After a march of 
about five miles, passed through the town of Berryville. 
A raid was made on bee-hives that looked inviting near 
the town. Honey for a change. The boys could eat most 
anything. Pushing on along the Winchester Pike, ford- 
ing the Opequon Creek and a wide brook, entered Win- 
chester from the east. Passed through the main street, 
out on the Strasburg Pike, came to a halt at the Union 
Mills, about four miles from Winchester, having 
marched about fifteen miles. For rations tonight we had 
pancakes (toejam) and honey, brought from Berryville. 
From observations we think we are near the enemy. It 
don't take us long to catch on. We watch the movements 
of the Signal Corps. They seem to have plenty of work 
when the enemy is near. The 6th Corps has left us, hav- 
ing been ordered to Washington. Only the 8th Corps left 
here. Greatly reduced in numbers owing to its severe 
duty for the past three months. Reported that General 
Early and his forces are still in the valley, and they num- 
ber about thirty thousand. 

July 2jd. Routed out early this morning. Picket 
firing has commenced. Our boys are driving the enemy. 
We advance in line of battle for quite a distance through 
the open lots, coming to a halt at Kearnstown, going right 

103 



at work digging rifle pits and throwing up earthworks. 
Our regiment ordered out on the skirmish line. Later, 
orders received to fall back and prepare camp for the 
night. At this time I am barefoot, shoes and stockings 
worn out. No prospect for any more as we are on the 
march about all the time. My feet are very sore as I 
must go through stubs and briers, cannot pick my way, 
must keep in line. Many of the boys are also in the same 
condition as I am, no shoes or stockings. Try to keep 
up courage. 

July 24th. Sunday morning, Kearnstown, hot. 
Ordered out into line early for inspection. Instead orders 
came to advance. Hot skirmishing began right off. Our 
regiment placed at the right of the line, west side of the 
pike. Colonel Mulligan with his division form the left 
of the line. Our position is on high ground where we can 
overlook the field. Orders came to charge into the woods. 
There we found the enemy en masse. They poured their 
fire on Mulligan's division. Mulligan was killed, his 
division losing very heavy. They were ordered to fall 
back. Orders came for our regiment to fall back to Win- 
chester. We marched back and later the enemy came out 
of the wood, when we saw plainly the large force they 
had. Owing to my naked feet I could hardly keep up, but 
kept pushing. There are many hills around Winchester. 
Before we could reach the earthworks the enemy had field 
guns posted on hills commanding our position. As I 
could not keep up with the boys I came near being cap- 
tured. I made a running jump over into the rifle pits 
near the old Star Fort. As I landed in the pits a solid shot 
also struck there. As I looked at it was thankful it was 
not a shell. Running around in the pits I was able to get 
out on the opposite side from the enemy and take my place 

104 



in our company, line being just in the rear of the fort, 
where we formed. Shells began to drop all around us! 
Finally one came in our midst, doing much damage, some 
being killed and wounded. It caused great excitement 
as the dust and dirt flew over us. A peculiar numbness 
came to me, making me think I was wounded. Picking 
up my gun that had fallen to the ground, I discovered 
that it had been hit by a piece of the exploded shell, the 
barrel being flat and bent. I threw it down and picked up 
another on the field. That was no doubt the cause of my 
numbness. Orders came for a change in our position and 
to fall back to Bunker Hill. Up to this time we had been 
fighting and falling back for about sixteen miles. Had 
the 6th Corps remained in the valley it would have given 
us more show against Early's large force, as they are in 
plain sight and we can see them from the hills. We will 
hold Bunker Hill and remain here for the night. I am 
in agony with my feet. We are in a ragged, dirty con- 
dition. The life of a soldier is a hard one. Our suffering 
at times is intense. It's all for our country that we all love. 

July 2^th. Bunker Hill. A very severe rain storm 
set in last night. We are wet through. Orders to march 
on to Martinsburg. My feet keep me reminded of the 
rough roads, stubs and briers in the lots. We reach Mar- 
tinsburg after a march of ten miles. After holding the 
enemy in check for a while we are again on the march. 
I picked up a pair of old boots, no doubt discarded by 
some cavalryman. They were much too large for me, and 
not having stockings I could not wear them as they galled 
my feet, making them worse. Was obliged to throw them 
away. 

After a very tedious march we reached Williamsport 
on the Potomac River, twenty miles from Bunker Hill. 

105 



Will remain here for the night. Foot-sore, weary, glad 
to lie down for the night on the wet ground for rest and 
sleep. Often wonder how the men can keep so patient. 
Sometimes we are made to feel that much of our trouble is 
brought on to us by jealousy and mismanagement on the 
part of our officers high up in rank. Our boys are always 
ready for any kind of duty. We have made marches over 
this Williamsport Pike before. Like all the pikes it is 
hard marching over the rough stones, up and down hill. 
That's our experience. 

July 26th. Called up early this morning. Wade the 
Potomac River over into Maryland. Marching on down 
the river road, across the Burnside Bridge, over Antietam 
Creek and the battlefield, passing the Dunker Church, 
located in the woods on the right. The rail fences were 
riddled with bullet holes, showing how fierce the battle 
must have been. Marched on through Sharpsburg, going 
into camp near the town, which shows the effects of the 
battle. The battle is known in the South as Sharpsburg. 
A fearful hot day, and a hard march. Our record for 
today is a march of about fifteen miles. Many of us 
fellows are marching shoeless. 

July 2'Jth. Up early this hot morning. On the 
march along the river road, going south. Nothing im- 
portant has taken place since we waded the river at Wil- 
liamsport. After a march of about six miles we came to 
the Maryland Heights. Passing on down, the road runs 
along beside the Ohio and Chesapeake Canal. Opposite 
is Harper's Ferry. Here we stop for rest and rations, 
making coffee from the water in the canal. After a short 
rest we continue our march on down the road beside the 
river and canal, on through Sandy Hook into Pleasant 

106 



Valley, Maryland, where we go into camp on high 
ground, overlooking the river and the canal. 

Owing to the severe service many of the boys are giv- 
ing out and are sent to a hospital. I would be all right, 
only for my feet. This is suffering for one's country. We 
are in it to the finish, in spite of what we must endure. I 
doubt at this time, if any man would take a discharge. I 
have not seen or heard of any who would. We are all 
very anxious for the finish, when peace will reign over our 
fair land. We remain here for the night, but don't know 
how much longer. 

July 28th. Pleasant Valley. All one can see from 
this point is mountains, trees, grass, the Potomac River, 
great flocks of turkey buzzards sailing through the air. 
About noontime orders came to fall in for a march. Our 
march led back over the river road, through Sandy Hook, 
on over the railroad bridge, through Harper's Ferry, up 
over Bolivar Heights by Camp Hill, out on the Charles- 
town Pike, going into camp near Halltown. A march of 
ten miles. Here we find a wagon train loaded with sup- 
plies. Orders to draw five days' rations. This will pass 
for another hot, dry, and dusty day, and I marching bare- 
footed over the rough, stony roads, up and down hill. 
Orders to put up our shelter tents. A large mail received. 
The 6th Corps showing up again. Trouble must be brew- 
ing. They are camping near our Corps, the 8th. Drew 
a pair of shoes and two pairs of woolen stockings. My 
feet are in bad condition to break in new shoes, or army 
brogans. Hope to get along all right now. Wrote a few 
letters. Our camp is on high ground, and all is quiet 
while we try to sleep and rest. 

July 30th. This morning opens up very hot. Hav- 
ing a rest. Trying to break in my new shoes. A bad job 

107 



for the feet, which are very sore. Early this afternoon, 
marching orders received. Confederate cavalry reported 
to be raiding into Pennsylvania and upper Maryland. 
Ordered to make a forced march. Fearful hot as we 
break camp and begin the march. Pushing on over Boli- 
var Heights down through Harper's Ferry, over the rail- 
road bridge into Maryland. Many of the boys are drop- 
ping out on account of the severe heat, the sun beating 
down on us, and no air. New shoes, woolen stockings, 
sore feet, make me about sick, while pushing along. I 
was obliged to drop out by the roadside. A member of 
our company, George W. Cross, said he would drop out 
and stick to me. After the sun went down we pushed 
along. Came to a brook of good cold water. Gave my 
feet a good bath, after which I was able to push on. 
Found the regiment in camp for the night, after making 
a forced march of sixteen miles. Glad to get my shoes 
and stockings off for the night and get a little rest. 

July Jlst. Sunday morning, but hot and dusty. 
Early on the march. About 9 A. M. we marched through 
Middletown, a fine place. There are many people in this 
town, dressed in their good clothes, watching us as we 
pass on, a dusty crowd. They all have a sad look in their 
faces. Keep very quiet, not a smile nor a cheer. We can- 
not tell whether they are in sympathy with us or are 
against us. We are reminded of our old homes in good 
old Connecticut. We soon passed through the town, out 
on the dusty hot roads. Between the hot sun and the dust 
many of the boys are giving out, dropping by the roadside. 
Some are picked up by the Ambulance Corps. Those 
who need a little rest, push on. This is a fine section of 
Maryland. 

108 



Night coming on we go into woodland to camp. 
Don't know the location, but believe we must be near the 
Pennsylvania state line. It is estimated we have marched 
about fifteen miles. 

August 1st. Cloudy, muggy morning. After a good 
night's rest, am feeling fine. Early on the march. After 
a march, about four miles, came to a halt on a road 
leading through woodland of very large trees. Later we 
camp in the woods, near the town of Wolfsville, Mary- 
land. A report has reached us that the rebs have burned 
the town of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Reported the 
enemy may come through this section and we may get a 
crack at them. Infantry cannot pursue cavalry. Mounted 
men have a great advantage over us fellows on foot. 
Weather very fine, water very poor, and not very much 
of it. We appreciate good water, where we can have 
plenty of it. 

August 2d. A fine morning. All is quiet in camp. 
Found a place where I could wash my clothes and dry 
them. Drew rations. Am feeling fine. A hot sun and 
dusty roads to march over, a fellow cannot keep very 
clean. Having a good rest in the good cool woods. We 
cannot help to wonder why we are in this section of the 
woods, unless the enemy are somewhere about here. 
Private soldiers are not supposed to know anything, but 
to obey orders. 

August 3d. Called out very early this morning. Left 
camp and on the march at 3 A. M. Enjoying the march 
through this fine country. After a time we began to 
ascend the mountains. Said to be the South Mountains. 
A fine view of the surrounding country. Peaceful and 
quiet. The inhabitants along the line of march seem to be 
very friendly. Maryland has regiments on both sides, 

109 



Union and Confederate. After marching along the top of 
the mountains for a few hours, we began to descend, 
coming out on the Frederick City Pike, which we had 
traveled before. Passed on through the city, out on the 
Monocacy Junction Pike, which we reached after a short 
march. Crossed the Monocacy River, going into camp 
near the river. Here we were surprised to see the 19th 
Corps, just arrived from New Orleans. In the corps was 
the 9th, 1 2th, 13th Connecticut Regiments. Pleased to 
meet the Connecticut boys. Our record for today's 
marching is estimated about twenty miles. 

August 4th. Fine morning. Had an early swim in 
the good clean waters of the Monocacy River. Later 
hunted up some bait, sat under a large tree to try my luck 
at fishing. Always keep a hook and line by me. Had 
very good luck. Dressed the fish at the river, went back to 
the camp, cooked them, and shared the fish with the boys. 
Only trouble was, I did not have enough for all our com- 
pany. A battle had been fought at this point a few weeks 
before, between the forces of General Lew Wallace and 
the Confederate leader Early. Additional rations were 
given to us, one potato, one onion, large size. A long 
time since we had vegetables. They were all right. We 
boiled and ate them. 

August ^tli. Early this morning had a good swim, 
after which I lay down under a large tree near the river. 
Had a good nap and rest. Then wrote a few letters. 
Very late in the afternoon orders came to fall in and form 
line. We marched into a large open field and formed 
three sides of a square, when orders came that a deserter 
from the 34th Ohio Regiment was to be executed at sun- 
set. After waiting a while we heard the band playing a 
dirge. Soon the whole party came in sight, six armed 

110 



men in front of the deserter and six in the rear. At his 
side walked a Chaplain. Behind all came an ambulance 
with a coffin. When all was ready the deserter sat on the 
coffin, blindfolded. Orders came to fire. I saw him fall 
over on the coffin. Don't wish to witness anything more 
like that. Besides being a deserter, it was reported that 
he was a spy, having enlisted in the rebel service. All 
I know about it is the talk about our camp and other 
regiments. 

August 6th. Anniversary of my enlistment. Two 
years in the service. Rain this morning. Marching 
orders came early. Left camp, crossed the Monocacy 
River and the B. & O. R. R. Roads very muddy. Hard 
marching as we go up and down hills. On over South 
Mountain, descending into the Pleasant Valley. After 
marching about fifteen miles we go in camp near the 
Potomac River. Late this afternoon the weather became 
clear and fine. Camp located on high sandy ground. A 
number of the boys are ill at this time and must leave for 
hospitals. All is quiet tonight. Hope to get a good rest 
for we don't know what tomorrow may bring to us. 

August Jth. A very hot morning. Early in the Poto- 
mac River for a good swim. Nothing like it. At the 
Quartermaster's I drew an army hat. The first I ever had. 
They are worn by the western boys. Much better than 
caps. Trying to keep cool during this hot day. Wrote a 
few letters. Mountains on all sides. Turkey buzzards 
in the air. 

August 8th. General Phil Sheridan takes command. 
Reported he will organize a large force in the valley. I 
witnessed the cavalry corps as they passed along the tow 
path, along the canal. Marching orders. Again on 
through Harper's Ferry, along the Shenandoah River. 



Ill 



After marching about eight miles, came to a halt near 
Halltown, on the river road. Here we find the 6th, 19th, 
and our own, the 8th Corps. A good place to bathe in 
the river. Foot of Loudon Heights. 

August gth. Pleasant morning. Camp near the 
river. Just at this time we are taking life easy. The boys 
wade the river, taking long tramps through the lots, up 
the mountain sides. Don't seem to have any fear of the 
guerillas who are said to be in the mountains. Perhaps 
they don't wish to make their presence known, and are 
watching the movements of the army now under the com- 
mand of General Sheridan. All is quiet in our camp this 
evening. 

August lOth. A hot morning. Marching orders 
came early, to be ready to march at the report of a signal 
gun. It will be our first movement under the command of 
General Sheridan. The advance is in three grand divi- 
sions, the 19th Corps on the right, the 6th center, the 8th 
on the left along the river road. Signal Corps and cav- 
alry on the advance. A part of the time we advance in 
line of battle. We watch, but do not understand, the 
work of the Signal Corps. Those boys seem to find the 
highest hills to work from. After advancing about ten 
miles, ordered to camp for the night. While all is quiet 
we are reminded there is trouble brewing for us. The 
boys talk and discuss all the movements of the day, as 
night comes on, and wonder what the morrow will bring. 

August nth. Early on the march. A hot dry morn- 
ing. Passed on through Berryville, pushing south 
through open lots and woods. Skirmishing on the ex- 
treme right, at Stony Point. A hot, hard, day's march. 
Suffered very much for water. After marching about 
twenty miles, late tonight came to a halt near a large 

112 



spring. Many of the boys were obliged to fall out. We 
are all very tired and about exhausted as we lie down for 
the night. 

August I2th. When near the enemy we are always 
routed out very early in the morning before daylight, in 
line to guard against a surprise. A hot dry morning. On 
the march across country. At noon, stopped near Cedar 
Creek for rations and a rest. Soon we began to advance 
in line, to the left of the pike, coming up against the rebel 
skirmish line. Soon a hot fight was on. We drove them 
back. As usual they had the shelter of the woods. Night 
coming on, the enemy having fallen back, our regiment 
detailed for picket and the skirmish line. Our company, 
C, remains at headquarters with the colors, being color 
company. Located on the north side of Cedar Creek, on 
high ground. The enemy, under Early, at Strasburg and 
Fisher's Hill, about four miles from our position. The 
battle of this date is known to us as Cedar Creek. 

August 13th. Early this morning our regiment took 
position in line, having been relieved from picket and 
skirmish duty. We can see the enemy over on the hills 
near Strasburg. Skirmish fighting is kept up between the 
lines during the day. We watch one another from the 
hills. Both sides open up once in a while with field guns. 
All is quiet this hot night, firing ceased. 

August 14th, This morning finds us still in line near 
Cedar Creek, and skirmish firing continues, but we 
are reminded that every battle kills a soldier, some one's 
dear friend killed, as we see them brought in from the 
skirmish line. We continue to watch one another from 
the hills. Sometimes the enemy will run a section of field 
guns up a high hill and throw a few shells over our way. 
A hot skirmish at Hupp's Hill. Near our line is a very 
8 113 



high hill. Our boys have a habit of going up it to watch 
the enemy. Guards have been placed there to keep us 
away, as we might draw the enemy's fire. A shell coming 
over that hill would no doubt drop in the midst of our 
regiment. The weather is fearful hot, day and night. 
No trouble to sleep. 

August ISth. This morning finds us still in line near 
Cedar Creek. Not much firing along the skirmish line. 
Sometimes both sides seem to get tired of the continual 
popping of the guns and cease firing. A large mail 
came for our regiment. Wrote a few letters to friends at 
home. All is quiet tonight near Cedar Creek. 

August idth. Line of battle still maintained. The 
boys are discussing the question of a probable battle at 
this point. It seems to be a question of watching and 
waiting. Marching orders received to march back to 
Winchester tonight. General Sheridan is now in com- 
mand. Many movements and mancEuvers are often made 
that are puzzling and hard to understand by the average 
soldier. It is our duty to obey orders and not ask ques- 
tions. Our Corps, the 8th, also known as the Army of 
West Virginia, the Mountain Creepers, Foot Cavalry, 
and the Buzzards, so called by its making so many forced 
marches over the mountains and valleys of Virginia. 

August I'/th. This morning finds us at Winchester 
after an all night's march. The night was hot. Did not 
have the hot sun beating down upon us. The return 
march was slow. After a few hours' rest and something 
to eat, pushed on to Berryville, east of Winchester. 
Reached there at night, tired out. A march of thirty 
miles from Cedar Creek. The enemy following on after 
us. Orders to remain here over night. Owing to the hot 
dry weather, the brooks and creeks are dry, no wading. 

114 



August I8th. Rain came during the night and this 
morning. While we do not like to get wet, it is welcome 
Will lay the dust, provided there is not too much, to make 
mud. Again on the march. Left Berryville by way of 
the Charlestown Pike. After a march of about six miles, 
came to a halt in woods, a field of corn nearby fur- 
nished us with plenty to boil and roast. Rain continues. 
All is quiet tonight in camp. 

August igth. Rain all night and this morning. 
Camp located a few miles south of Charlestown. Lieu- 
tenant Hinkley, Company I, returned today having re- 
covered from wounds. Edwin S. Fitch promoted to 
sergeant in our company, C. Pleasing to all of us. A 
very stormy day in the life of a soldier. 

August 20th. No rain this morning, very cloudy. 
Keeping quiet in the woods. Late this afternoon, march- 
ing orders. Marching on towards Charlestown. The 
enemy must be near. Halt near the town on the Berry- 
ville Pike. Reported we remain here for the night. Very 
cloudy. Nothing important has taken place. All is quiet. 

August 2 1 St. This morning opens up bright and fine. 
Early we go on the march. Cross the Smithfield road, 
southwest of Charlestown. Line of battle formed. 
Ordered to intrench by digging rifle pits. Working while 
under a heavy fire, solid shot and shells dropping all 
around us. The enemy was forced to retire. This battle 
was at Smithfield and the Opequon Creek. We are wait- 
ing for orders. While waiting, surprised to receive a 
large mail for our regiment. We put in a hard day, dig- 
ging rifle pits under fire and battle, changing position at 
double-quick time. The brunt of the battle was fought 
by our cavalry. 

August 22d. Early on the march. Passed through 
Charlestown. Pushing on, after a march of about six 

115 



miles, came to a halt at Halltown. A line of battle was 
soon formed under a hot fire from the enemy. Go right 
at work building intrenchments made of logs and dirt. 
The strongest we were ever behind. Hot skirmishing 
going on. Rain and darkness put a stop to the firing. 
Trying to get sleep under arms, ready for an attack at 

night. 

August 23d. Sun shining bright this morning. Skir- 
mishing firing began at daylight. A number of the 
enemy's sharpshooters are up in high trees. They annoy 
us very much. Not safe to show one's head above the rifle 
pits. Saw General Sheridan pass quickly along the line, 
just as a shell dropped inside our intrenchments. No 
damage from it, as it exploded just beyond our line. We 
are on the watch, as the skirmishers are kept very busy. 

August 24th, Routed out before daylight. Our 
brigade ordered outside the intrenchments to charge and 
drive the enemy out of the woods, also to burn a number 
of haystacks behind which the enemy kept reserves. As 
we started on the charge they fell back to their main line 
at Charlestown. The sharpshooters came out of the trees 
in a hurry. Later, orders came for us to return inside the 
intrenchments, taking our position. The enemy followed 
slowly on after us, taking their old position, but not be- 
hind the haystacks, which had gone up in smoke. 

August 2Sth. Last night, under cover of darkness, 
a detail was made, about twenty men, ordered to advance 
and intrench, to try and dislodge the enemy's sharp- 
shooters who were up in high trees and making trouble 
for us, shooting at the boys, by improving every chance 
they could get. When the opportunity came, our boys 
were to give them a volley. They did so, but did not harm 
the rebs. I heard them call out, as soon as our boys fired 

116 



on them, '' How are you Horace Greeley? " showing that 
no harm came to them. It made quite a laugh at the time. 
The rebs often called to us " How are you Horace 
Greeley? Does your mother know you are out? " 

Late in the afternoon all firing ceased and everything 
became quiet. We could hear the enemy's drum corps 
and they could no doubt hear ours. Our boys and the 
Johnnies on the skirmish line entered into an agreement 
not to fire on one another. For proof they fixed bayonets 
on their guns, sticking them in the ground, butts up. 
Both sides could see. Agreements made at such times 
were kept. Both sides kept outside the earthworks. 
Sometimes the boys would meet between the lines, ex- 
change tobacco for coffee. The rebs were always very 
anxious to get hold of New York papers. Night coming 
on, both sides would resume duty. A hard shower came 
late this afternoon. 

August 26th. This morning finds us still in line at 
Halltown. A large force of skirmishers ordered outside 
the rifle pits. Must charge on the enemy, drive them 
back. The enemy in strong force, well posted. The 
skirmish was hot while it lasted. A number of our boys 
were wounded, carried inside our lines. Late in the day 
all became quiet. I am detailed for picket duty tonight. 
The boys are sleeping tonight with equipments on, ready 
for a sudden call to duty. We are often obliged to sleep 
with our guns in our arms. 

August 2Jth. Came oflF picket duty very early this 
morning. It was discovered that the enemy was on the 
march southward. Some of our boys having recovered 
from wounds and sickness, returned today for duty. Some 
have died, others discharged from the service. Owing to 
the severe duty our regiment is greatly reduced in num- 

117 



bers. We can only muster at this time, fit for duty, one 
hundred and twenty. Commanded by Captain Martin 
V. B. Tiffany, Co. I. No field oflicer on duty except 
Adjutant Geo. W. Brady. Some of the officers of the 
regiment are still prisoners of war. Surprised when 
orders came for a dress parade outside the earthworks. 

August 28th. Left Halltown and the earthworks 
very early this morning, following on after the rebel 
hordes who are under the command of General Jubal 
Early. We are pleased to be under the command of the 
Gallant Phil Sheridan. There will come a time when he 
will grab Early by the neck, we believe. Came to a halt 
at Charlestown. Again on the march, going southward 
through woodland and across fields. Judging by the roar 
of the field guns and musketry firing in the direction of 
Winchester, our boys have overtaken the enemy. We 
came to a halt in the woods. Ordered to remain here for 
the night. Weather fine. Our marching record for today 
about eight miles. 

August 2Qth. Called up very early this morning 
after a quiet night. We are about four miles south of 
Charlestown. Heavy cannonading in the direction of 
Winchester, which lies about ten miles southwest of 
Charlestown. All is quiet with us as we rest and sleep. 
Rations are good and plenty. Consist of hardtack, pork, 
coffee, sugar. Report reaches us that our boys are in 
possession of Winchester. Weather fine. Taking life 
easy in these woods. 

August joth. This fine morning finds us in the 
woods. We need this rest and sleep that we are having at 
this time. This is fine timber land. Great large trees, 
mostly white oak and black walnut. We are enjoying this 
very quiet time. Very thankful for it. 

118 



August 3lst. Camp in the woods. Called up very 
early. Our regiment detailed for picket duty. We ad- 
vance towards the west, near Smithfield and the Opequon 
Creek. A strong picket line maintained. While every- 
thing is quiet with us, must keep a good lookout. Cannot 
tell what an hour may bring forth. We have been in the 
service for over two years on this the last day in August. 

September 1st. Thursday. A very hot morning. 
Our regiment relieved from picket. Marched back to our 
camping place in the woods. A good bath in cold spring 
water coming out of the ground clear as crystal. There 
are many fine springs in the Shenandoah Valley. After 
my bath had a good sleep. Ready to eat and sleep at most 
any time. All sorts of rumors are passed along the lines. 
One report comes that we are to receive a visit from the 
paymaster. A poor place for us to receive six months' 
pay, which is more than due. The families at home are in 
need of the money. 

September 2nd. A very pleasant morning. Now 
wondering why we still remain in the woods. Believe the 
enemy must be in this vicinity in a strong force. Wrote 
several letters to friends at home. Later a surprise came 
when orders came to fall in for pay, the Paymaster having 
shown up in our camp. Too much money for a fellow to 
carry while in front of the enemy. The Confeds liked 
to get hold of greenbacks. We usually sent money home 
by the Adams Express Company. The men with families 
were very anxious to send money home. All I send home 
is banked for me. Men of families often worry and won- 
der how they are getting along at home, as they must wait 
for the money, which comes very slow and not very much 
of it for men with families. 



119 



September jd. Routed out very early this morning. 
On the march by daylight, moving slowly on towards 
Berryville. Reached the town at noon. Stop for rations. 
Sharp cannonading to the west, in the direction of 
Winchester. While waiting, orders came to camp on 
the west side of the town. Put up our shelter tents. 
Weather very cloudy and windy. While preparing 
rations orders came suddenly to strike tents immediately 
and get into line. Our pickets on the advance were at- 
tacked. A hot skirmish was on. After a hard run for 
about a mile, line was formed and we were in a hot en- 
gagement. Making a charge, orders came to halt. The 
battle continued until darkness, when we ceased firing, but 
the artillery kept up their work long after dark. Both 
lines are very near each other, while we are under arms, 
ready for a call at any moment. When the firing ceased 
it did not take us very long to drop off to sleep. 

September 4th. About midnight last night I was 
called up by the Adjutant to take a detail of ten men, go 
to the rear, find the ammunition train, obtain five thou- 
sand rounds of cartridges, five boxes. It was estimated 
the train was about a mile in the rear, owing to the 
enemy's firing from field guns very late in the night. The 
boxes were very heavy. The detail ought to have been 
twenty men, as we had so far to carry the boxes. It was 
a fearful dark night. Going back we lost our reckoning. 
Began to think we were approaching the enemy's line. I 
ordered a halt. Told the boys I would go forward and 
investigate and locate the regiment if I could. Going 
forward carefully, listening, looking in all directions, 
believed I was approaching the enemy's line. I knew 
when darkness came on both lines were very close to each 
other. To the right I could see the outline of trees. 

120 



e 



Approaching them I saw horses, and men sleeping on th, 
ground. Owing to the darkness I could not see who they 
were. Putting on a bold front I called out " What regi- 
ment? " For answer I received a glorious reply, " The 
1 8th Connecticut." Overjoyed I near dropped to the 
ground. I ran back to the boys and the ammunition was 
delivered to headquarters in safety, for which I was very 
thankful. On our return from the ammunition train we 
had worked off to the left, approached the regiment from 
the south instead of from the north side, where we left. 
Lay down for a rest. Had a talk with some prisoners 
captured last night on the charge. They were from 
Mississippi. Claimed they did not know we were in their 
front. They were on their way to cross Snicker's Ford 
and the Gap. It seemed to be a surprise all around. 
We are now under the command of General Sheridan. 
The enemy won't fool him. At daylight the ammunition 
was given out and the line of battle was changed. 
Ordered to fall back and change our position. Passed 
the 1 2th Connecticut, in the 19th Corps. We are under 
the command of Captain Tiffany. Owing to severe serv- 
ice for the past eight months our regiment greatly reduced 
in numbers. Less than one hundred men fit for duty and 
not a field officer except the Adjutant. Our regiment 
detailed to guard the wagon train. Don't like that kind 
of duty. Must take our turn at it. Guerillas keep us busy. 
As many of them dress in blue uniforms we cannot tell 
them from our own men. Sometimes they manage to 
cut out of a train three or four wagons loaded with sup- 
plies. The drivers will most generally obey orders, 
whether from friend or foes, when they see a gun pointed 
at their heads. Sometimes it is most impossible to keep 
the teams close together, but at this time the train is 

121 



parked, so we stand guard around it. All is quiet at this 
time along our lines at Berryville. 

September ^th. Cold cloudy morning. All is quiet. 
We have a long line of earthworks near Berryville, fac- 
ing south. This seems to be another case of waiting and 
watching. Guarding the wagon train which remains 
parked. Nothing special has taken place today, only a 
cold rain tonight, making us uncomfortable. 

September 6th. A cold rain storm set in last night. 
Relieved from guarding the wagon train. Orders for us 
to proceed to the front. Company A ordered out on the 
skirmish line, under command of Lieutenant Robert 
Kerr. Regiment in line in the rifle pits. Rations issued. 
Cold storm continues. No tents up. Out in the open. 
Clothes wet through. Late this P. M. our company, C, 
detailed for picket duty. Picket fires not allowed as it 
might draw the enemy's fire, by sending shells over our 
way. 

September 'Jth. Storm cleared up this morning, for 
which we are very thankful. Relieved from picket by 
a company from the 12th West Virginia Regiment. 
Wrote a few letters. Weather clear and cool. Trying 
to get rest and sleep. When oflf duty call on members of 
other regiments. Very pleasant to become acquainted 
with soldiers from the different states. 

September 8th. This morning comes in cool and very 
cloudy. An opportunity given us to send money home. 
I sent seventy dollars to put in bank. Did not wish to 
carry so much with me. One cannot tell what might 
happen to a soldier, for we remember that every battle 
kills a soldier. Orders came about ten A. M. to fall in, 
double quick. The result was we made a forced march 
across country, through muddy lots, until we came to 

122 



Summit Point, near the Winchester Pike. A hard march 
that put us on the right of the line of battle. A march of 
about ten miles from Charlestown to Winchester Pike. 
Why it was a forced march in a cold rain storm, we 
cannot tell. It was through Virginia sticky mud. At 
this point all things seem to be quiet. Orders to make 
camp and put up our shelter tents. This all comes in the 
life of a soldier in the field during war. Obey orders 
and don't ask questions. 

September Qth. Camp near Summit Point, our old 
battlefield, June 15th, 1863. Company drill this morning. 
Very strange to us. No other regiment out, in the face 
of the enemy. Battalion drill this P. M. The boys are all 
mad over it. The men need the rest. It is thought Cap- 
tain Tiffany wished to make a show, because we are well 
drilled. Dress parade at 5 P. M. A number of new 
recruits joined our regiment today, coming from Con- 
necticut. They were assigned to our company, C, we 
having the least number of any company in the regiment, 
owing to losses during the severe campaign for the past 
eight months. Wrote a few letters. Draw four days' 
rations. The day closes clear and pleasant. All is quiet 
along the lines. 

September lOth. This morning brings rain, making 
camp life very miserable again. Heavy cannonading to 
the south, in the direction of the Winchester and Berry- 
ville Pike. The enemy is still in the valley. General 
Early will have to keep a sharp lookout for our gallant 
Phil Sheridan. A large mail received today. A very 
great pleasure to receive letters from home and friends 
in good old Connecticut. The weather clear at noon. 
Fine. 



123 



September Ilth. Marching orders came early this 
morning. On the backward march towards Charlestown. 
Go into camp on the south side of the town. A good bath 
in a large brook over on the east side of the town. Remain 
here for the night. 

September I2th. Cold cloudy morning. Ordered to 
the east side of the town, to make camp. Shelter tents 
put up. Picket line established out near the Shenandoah 
River. The fords must be guarded. Must keep a sharp 
lookout for Mosby and his guerillas. They know every 
foot of this country and all the fording places, so it is 
reported to us. A cold rain has come. I am detailed for 
picket. Have charge of the outpost, near the river. Cap- 
tain Tiflfany in command of our regiment. The town and 
vicinity in command of our Brigade Commander, Colo- 
nel Rodgers, 2d Maryland Regiment. Many army 
wagons are parked here. 

September IJth. Clear cool morning. On picket. 
A shot rang out last night on the still air, fired by one of 
the pickets. Caused a little excitement. There was no 
real cause for an alarm. All became quiet. Pickets make 
a mistake at times. The regiment guarded a wagon train 
on to Halltown, about five miles. Returned quite late 
this afternoon, when we were relieved from picket duty. 

September 14th. A quiet morning in our camp. 
Resting and trying to get a little comfort out of life. 
Talking and living over our service during the past year, 
not forgetting our unfortunate comrades who were killed 
and wounded, prisoners. The life of a soldier in war is 
a severe and sad one. Wonderful what men can endure. 

September I^th. Weather fine. At this time duty 
is light in our camp near this town. Getting all the com- 

124 



fort we can out of our soldier life. Writing many letters 
to friends in good old Connecticut. 

September lOth. All is quiet in camp and on picket 
duty. General Sheridan and the main part of the army 
are near Winchester. Long wagon trains with supplies 
pass through town, to and from the main army. Must be 
kept well guarded. Guerillas are liable to attack the 
trains at most any point and time. One can get a good 
view of the valley and surrounding country from the 
mountains and hills. 

September Ijth. Pleasant morning. Detailed for 
picket duty. Located northeast of town, between the 
Harper's Ferry Pike and the Shenandoah River, on the 
ground where old John Brown was hung in 1859. About 
noontime saw a company of cavalrymen come flying down 
the pike from Harper's Ferry. Wondered what it meant. 
Later we learned that General Grant and General Sheri- 
dan were in town. Caused much excitement and com- 
ment as they held a conference at a large house just 
southeast of town. The company I saw from our picket 
post was General Grant and his escort. All is quiet 
tonight. 

September l8th. Relieved from picket. Late in the 
day long wagon trains passed through town, some being 
parked here. Those passing on went to Harper's Ferry. 
Things begin to take on a mysterious look which created 
much comment and talk among the boys. Either a battle 
was coming or Sheridan was to fall back. We had heard 
that Early was holding a strong position between the 
towns of Berryville and Winchester. All is quiet with us 
tonight. 

September IQth. Roused up at daylight by heavy 
cannonading in the direction of Winchester. The battle 

125 



was on. Those of us who were off duty, with some of the 
towns-people, went to the top of a high hill to listen to the 
roar of musketry and the field guns. It was something 
frightful as it continued. We were ordered to hold our- 
selves ready to fall in at any moment. The inhabitants as 
well as the soldiers wore an anxious look as the battle was 
on. After a time the firing ceased and we began to wonder 
how the battle was going on. Later we heard it again 
but knew from the sound that it was farther away. Then 
we began to rejoice and the inhabitants, with a sad face, 
went to their homes. Late in the afternoon the news came 
that Early was routed and was fleeing up the valley. 
Then our boys began to wish that we were in it. Sheridan 
placed us at Charlestown to guard and care for the wagon 
train. It is not our fault to miss the battle. 

September 20th. Great excitement and talk among 
our boys over Sheridan's great victory. It is now our 
gallant Phil Sheridan who is master of the Shenandoah 
Valley. Early has run up against a good soldier who has 
the men at his command. Too small a force has been in 
the valley for the past three years. Sheridan has a good 
cavalry corps, just what is needed here. We cheer and 
sing for our gallant Phil Sheridan. Keep a good watch 
for the large number of wagons, horses, and mules parked 
at this point. That's our duty, to care for them. 

September 2lst. Pleasant, quiet morning in our 
camp. Nothing special to cause any alarm. Waiting and 
wondering what's coming, as the wagon train is slowly 
leaving. Was somewhat surprised, when ordered into 
line, to hear Colonel Ely read his resignation as colonel 
of the 1 8th Regiment, he having been in the service for 
three years and six months. At this time I am fourth 



126 



corporal, acting first sergeant, so greatly reduced is our 
company and regiment. 

September 22d. This morning prisoners began to 
show up. They were guarded from here to Harper's 
Ferry by a portion of our regiment, who relieved the 
cavalry escort, or guard. Our boys joking with them. 
Some of them we had been up against at Lynchburg, dur- 
ing Hunter's raid. The wagon trains have left here, 
going on to Harper's Ferry. Nothing for us to do here! 
Reported late tonight we leave here in the morning. 

September 23d. Called up very early. Marching 
orders received. Report at Martinsburg, a distance about 
eighteen miles from Charlestown. The road led along 
the B. & O. R. R., a very rough road for marching over. 
We entered the town late this afternoon, making good 
time but very tired. The town was well deserted, having 
been occupied by the rebels. Our regiment, the first to 
enter after the enemy left. Marched through the town 
to the south side. Go into camp in the Faulkner's woods, 
owned by Charles J. Faulkner, a leading Virginia seces- 
sionist, one who did much damage to the Union people in 
this part of Virginia. Faulkner and his son went south, 
casting their lots with the Confederacy. His wife and 
daughter remained at home to hold the large plantation 
and property. The home was a great resort, from all 
accounts, for Union officers, who were entertained there. 
Much valuable information went south from that home. 
So it was always reported by the Union people in Martins- 
burg. I put in many hours on picket duty in those woods, 
while stationed in Martinsburg and vicinity. 

September 24th. This morning details were made 
for picket duty and working on the railroad and the tele- 
graph lines, doing the work laboring men ought to have 

127 



done. The enemy destroyed about everything connected 
with the railroad. I was detailed, with twenty men, to 
report at the station to the road-master. Our equipments 
were left at the station, while we loaded telegraph poles 
on flat cars, distributed them along the road, and helped 
to set them. We were obliged to throw the poles off from 
the slowly moving train. It was hard and very dangerous 
work for inexperienced men who were so near used up 
from hard service during the year. We were thankful 
when night came and we could return to our camp to rest 
and sleep. 

September 2^th. Hard work and picket duty con- 
tinues. There is much kicking by the boys over the hard 
work. It's out of our line. We are soldiers and here for 
that purpose, not laboring men working for a railroad 
company to help build up the line, doing very dangerous 
work. 

September 26th. Weather fine. Nothing of a special 
nature has taken place so far, but the hard work continues. 
Our camp is in a pleasant location. We enjoy it all we 
can, but do get very tired with the hard work put upon us. 

September 2^th. All quiet in our camp. Martins- 
burg is beginning to resume business again. Stores are 
opening up. As far as can be known, no enemy in this 
vicinity at the present time. Trains are running to this 
town. 

September 28th. A provost guard of our regiment 
is on duty in town to preserve the peace and protect the 
business interest, which is improving. Service is now 
held in all the churches. All is quiet. Many seem to 
think that the war is about over. The rebel sympathizers 
do not, say they will never give in. 

128 



September 2Qth. Early this morning our regiment 
ordered out in light marching order. After line was 
formed we marched out on the Winchester Pike. About 
a mile out we came to a halt at the roadside, waiting for 
some cause, under arms. After waiting a long time, late 
in the afternoon, a marching column could be seen coming 
down the pike. It proved to be a large number of 
prisoners under cavalry escort. We relieved the cavalry- 
men, taking charge of the prisoners. Marched them 
through the town to the railway station. Loaded them 
into box cars. Guarded them to Harper's Ferry where 
we arrived about midnight. 

September joth. At Harper's Ferry with the pris- 
oners, having been on duty all night. Had a great 
time talking to the rebs over past experiences. Met one, 
formerly from our old home town, Norwich, Conn. 
Turned the prisoners over to the commander of the post, 
when we returned to Martinsburg. As soon as we arrived 
went right on duty, after being up all last night. Picket 
duty and working on the railroad. The guerillas are at 
work. Old Mosby keeps us busy. They managed to steal 
horses, and get the best. Our boys are kicking over the 
hard work on the railroad. Trains are running regular 
again over the road. This is an important line, through, 
on to the west. Business is improving, judging by the 
number of trains. 

October 1st to I2th. Nothing special has taken place 
between these dates. Picket duty, and plenty of hard 
work, has been the order of each day as they come and go. 
Business is improving in the town. Many places are 
opening up, ready for business. Trains running quite 
regular. Lieutenant-Colonel Peale returned to the regi- 

9 129 



ment, taking command, after being absent about two 
months in Washington, D. C. 

October Ijth. The long roll called us up very early, 
before daylight. We turned out on double-quick time 
leaving camp on the run, out on the Winchester Pike. 
When out a short distance came to a halt. After w^ait- 
ing a while, was ordered to return to camp. Wondering 
what it meant. Later in the day we heard that Mosby 
and his guerillas captured a train on the B. & O. R. R. 
between Martinsburg and Harper's Ferry. The train 
was badly damaged, passengers robbed. Mosby knows 
every road and path in this section. 

October 1 8th. All quiet since the last date. Nothing 
special to record. Our regular routine has been going on 
through the days, picket and labor. When time permits 
we have to drill and have dress parade. Sunday morning 
inspection comes regular. 

October IQth. Early this morning, at daylight, we 
heard the guns at a distance. We knew by the sound that 
a hot battle was on, up the valley. We waited for a re- 
port but none came. We knew by the sound that our boys 
were falling back. It was an anxious time for us. Our 
regiment under arms, ready for duty as soon as called 
upon. There came a time when the firing seemed to 
cease, all was quiet. Later on the battle was on again. 
The sound became less. We could hardly hear it. Then 
we began to feel that our boys were driving the enemy. 
Quite late, reports came that a battle at Cedar Creek and 
Fisher's Hill was on. At first our boys were surprised 
and driven back, but became victorious. 

October 20th. Many reports of the great battle came 
late last night and this morning. Great cheering and re- 
joicing. Our gallant Phil rode from Winchester to the 

130 



army and saved the day. Expressions on all sides, Gen- 
eral Sheridan was never defeated. Jubal Early found out 
that our gallant Phil Sheridan was in command of the 
Shenandoah Valley and he had the men to back him up. 
The talk in camp is the war will soon be over. 

October 2lst. We are rejoicing over the defeat of 
Early, and Sheridan's great victory. We are also happy 
over the part our corps, the 8th under Crook, had in 
bringing about the great victory. It was not our fault that 
we were not there. We continue our picket duty and 
laboring for the good of Martinsburg and the railroad. 

October 22d. Report comes to us of the death of our 
Brigade and Division Commander at Cedar Creek. We 
are all sorry that he was killed. He was one of the best 
officers in our corps. Colonel Thoburn, ist West Virginia 
Regiment, a good friend to our regiment, a medical 
doctor by profession. 

October 2^d. Our regular routine is kept up day 
after day. A part of the duty of a soldier and laboring 
man. Everything quiet in this vicinity except reports 
that come to us about the guerillas. Don't think they 
care to come near infantry. 

October 26th. All quiet up to early this morning, 
before daylight, when the long roll sounded out calling 
us out under arms. It makes much excitement in the dark. 
We were quickly in line and on the Winchester Pike. 
In line waiting for orders. After waiting some time, later 
on, we learned the cause. General Duffield, a cavalry 
commander, left Winchester last night for Martinsburg, 
with a small escort. A few miles out on the Pike the 
General and his escort were captured by Mosby. The 
General was riding in an ambulance to get sleep and rest. 
That's the report as it came to us. That dashing business 

131 



was carried out on both sides. After a time we returned 
to our camp. General Duffield is no doubt on his way to 
Richmond. All is quiet tonight. 

October 2Qth. All things have been quiet with us 
since the last date. The regiment voted for President. 
Commissioners were here from Connecticut. Each voter 
was given two ballots and an envelope. One for Lincoln 
and one for General McClellan. The voter, taking his 
ballots to his tent or anywhere he chose, put in the en- 
velope the one of his choice, seal and return to the Com- 
missioners who carried the vote home. I was not old 
enough to vote. I could carry a gun and do as much duty 
as any man. 

The excitement through the North is great, so it is 
reported to us, and trouble is expected in the large cities, 
owing to the anti-war spirit that is cropping out. Ac- 
cording to reports many regiments are being sent to the 
North to hold the toughs in check. Reported late this 
afternoon we may be sent to New Haven. Hope there 
won't be any trouble, for the sake of good old Connecticut. 
Later orders came for us to prepare to take train for New 
Haven. Great excitement in camp tonight as we are 
getting ready to leave in the morning. 

October JOth. Not much sleep last night. Early in 
line this morning. Relieved by an Iowa Regiment. 
Cheers were given for each regiment, then all together 
for Honest Old Abe. The Iowa boys shouted, "A good 
time and good luck." Soon reached the train where a 
crowd gave cheers for Old Abe, and wishing us a happy 
time. Singing and cheering as the train moved on 
towards Baltimore, where we arrived about noon. Noth- 
ing important happened as we journeyed along. Pushed 
across the city to the Philadelphia R. R. station. Then on 

132 



to Philadelphia, where we arrived late this afternoon 
Dinner at the Cooper Shop. Received kind treatment 
from the people of Philadelphia. A pleasant journey so 
far. Discussing over the election as we journey along, on 
towards good old Connecticut. 

October Jlst. Arrived at Jersey City all right, this 
morning. Crossed the Hudson River by Cortlandt Street 
ferry. On the march up Cortlandt Street we were hooted 
and jeered at by the toughs. We passed along without 
taking any notice of it. Our march was up Broadway. 
At Martinsburg, West Virginia, we were sent ofT with 
cheers. In New York City which had many thousands of 
its good citizens in the Union army. Union soldiers were 
insulted as they marched on through the streets. At the 
railroad station. Fourth Avenue and 27th Street, we were 
soon on board train for New Haven. 

We enjoyed the trip. When we crossed the line cheers 
were given for good old Connecticut. We arrived late 
this afternoon. Line formed, we marched through the 
streets, making a good appearance, every man doing his 
best, from the drum corps all down the line. Passed 
under a large Lincoln banner, cheered by each company 
as we passed along. We marched out to Grapevine Point, 
East Haven, going into camp at Conscript Camp, there to 
remain on duty until further orders. This camp is used 
by the state. All recruits are sent here and sent from here 
to the different regiments. 

November 1st. On duty at the camp. Waiting for 
the election to take place. I was one of the three cor- 
porals in charge of the main gate. The grounds and bar- 
racks are surrounded by a high board fence. A number 
of recruits are here, waiting to be sent to the different 

regiments. 

133 



November Jth. Nothing special has occurred up to 
this date. On duty most of the time as corporal of the 
guard. 

November 8th. This is the great day, election taking 
place. We are under orders to respond if wanted. 

November Qth. The election passed off very quiet 
yesterday. No trouble. Great rejoicing over the re-elec- 
tion of Honest Old Abe. We feel that it was a great vic- 
tory, and do believe that the war will soon be over. 
Allowed to go home for a short visit. Ordered to 
assemble at the camp on tomorrow night, and by the morn- 
ing of the nth, to return to Martinsburg. 

November I Ith. Had a very pleasant short visit at 
home. The regiment assembled this forenoon, soon in 
line, on the march through New Haven, to the railroad 
station. We received a great send ofif by the citizens of 
New Haven, cheering and wishing us good luck. Soon 
on board train bound for New York. Made good time. 
Marched through the city. All quiet. No toughs in 
sight. Mr. Lincoln's election made things quiet. Crossed 
the Cortlandt Street ferry to Jersey City. Soon on board 
train, bound for Martinsburg, which we were anxious to 
reach. 

November I2th. After an all night's ride, arrived 
at Baltimore this morning. Marched through Pratt 
Street to the B. & O. station, Camden Street. Up to this 
time nothing special occurred to make mention of. All 
are anxious to reach camp. Leave Baltimore tonight. 

November IJth. Arrived in camp early this morn- 
ing. Pleased with our trip to Connecticut. Happy that 
our regiment was selected. Again on duty. Hope to 
remain here during the coming winter. In camp in the 
Faulkner's Woods, a good place. 

134 



November Ijth. Nothing special just at this time. 
We enjoy our camp and this town. Hope we go into 
winter quarters and remain here for duty. The town and 
railroad must be protected. No bad winter weather so 
far. Regular duty is kept up from day to day. Picket, 
guard, drilling, cutting wood for camp. The health of 
our regiment, at this time, is good. 

November 22d. Everything has been quiet with us 
up to this date. The daily routine comes and goes on 
from day to day. Weather good for this time of the year. 
Late today, marching orders received. Must leave here 
for Halltown, four miles south of Harper's Ferry. 

November 23d. Called up early this morning. 
Sorry to leave our good camp in the Faulkner's woods, 
Martinsburg. Our boys often repeat, " There is no rest 
for the wicked." Soldiers must obey orders and not ask 
questions. Left camp, on the march for Halltown. After 
an uneventful march of about eighteen to twenty miles we 
reached Halltown at night, tired, foot-sore, marching 
over rough roads. This town consists of a railroad station 
and a few old houses, which show the effect of the war. 
General Sheridan will open up the Harper's Ferry and 
Winchester Railroad, as it is reported his army will go in 
winter quarters at Winchester. Our regiment must hold 
this point, owing to scouting parties of the enemy, who 
may attempt to capture his supply trains. 

November 24th. Our camp located on a high hill, 
west of the town. Fine scenery at this point. Our picket 
line will cover from Halltown to Charlestown, a distance 
of about five miles along the railroad. 

November 26th. Orders are that we prepare for 
winter quarters, as we are to remain here. A good 
supply of good, clear, running water. Halltown is half 

135 



way betwen Charlestown and Harper's Ferry. All our 
supplies come from Harper's Ferry. 

November joth. Very busy since the last date. Pre- 
paring to keep comfortable for the coming cold weather. 
A steam sawmill near town, where we can buy lumber to 
make our shacks. The government only furnishes tents, 
so we have to chip in and buy the boards. Our quarters 
are six feet wide, nine feet long. The roof made of tents 
drawn over rafters. Bunks made for four, filled with 
straw. Some of the shacks were made larger. Ours was 
occupied by Sergeant Fred Spencer, Corporals Restcome, 
Peckham, Charles H. Lynch, and Private Edwin Wash- 
burn. 

December 1st. Time is passing very pleasantly with 
us. Duty so far mostly picket and guard. There are 
many points of interest in this vicinity that were con- 
nected with the Revolutionary War, so we have been in- 
formed. The raid of old John Brown, and his death by 
hanging, in December, 1859, by the State of Virginia, for 
treason. Trying to liberate the slaves. 

December jd. Our duty continues to be the same 
from day to day. When ofif regular duty, work in the 
woods cutting up wood for camp. Everyone must take a 
turn at the axe. George A. Weaver, of our company, re- 
ceived a bad cut in the leg from an axe slipping from 
the hands of one of the boys. Weaver was carried to the 
hospital, where a number of stitches were taken in the 
wound. General Sheridan has posted notices along the 
Harper's Ferry Railroad that if the road, or trains going 
to and from Winchester to Harper's Ferry, are in any 
manner molested, he will burn every house and barn 
within a circle of five miles. I read the notice on trees 
along the line of the road. 

136 



December ^th. Orders to keep a sharp lookout for 
guerillas and raiding parties. The Blue Ridge Moun- 
tains and hills are in plain view, and the valley for miles. 
Chaplain Wm. C. Walker returned after a long illness. 
We were all pleased to welcome the good Chaplain. We 
believe Sheridan's notice will be a good thing, as the in- 
habitants can help to protect the road. 

December lOth. All things have remained quiet as 
we go through our regular routine of duty from day to 
day. We get newspapers quite regular from home, fur- 
nished by good people, for all of which we are very 
thankful. 

December I2th. Report comes this morning that 
guerillas crossed Sheridan's railroad last night and cap- 
tured a train on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, near 
Duffield Station. They passed near our picket posts. 
Did not molest us, as we did not see or hear anything of 
them. Trains with passengers, mail, and supplies pass 
over this road. The rebs no doubt read Sheridan's notice, 
for many of them have homes in this vicinity. 

December 2§th. Christmas at Halltown. We hope 
this will be our last Christmas in the service, and that the 
war will soon be over. We write many letters and re- 
ceive a large mail every day, coming from Harper's 
Ferry. All our shacks have small stoves, so that we use 
much of our time cutting wood. When off duty we visit 
the farmhouses, buy eggs and butter, vegetables. We are 
living well, passing the time very pleasantly for camp life. 
We are dressed warm, as we can have things sent from 
home, coming by Adams Express to Harper's Ferry. 

December Jlst. This is the last day of the year. All 
is quiet at our camp on this high hill. Not very much 
snow or real cold weather. We manage to keep comfort- 

137 



able. At our reserve picket post we have built a large 
inclosure, made of logs and dirt, surrounded by small 
evergreen trees, a large fire in the center around which we 
sleep and rest when our reliefs are off duty. The inclo- 
sure is so large and high it cannot be seen from the out- 
side, making it safe from the shots of the guerillas, scouts, 
and bushwhackers. The farthest post out from the re- 
serves is about one mile, while the pickets are within 
hailing distance. We go on picket duty at 3 P. M. 
instead of 9 A. M. I don't know why the change was 
made. I am on duty every other night. 

1865 

January 1st. Camp at Halltown, where we are going 
through life doing the duty of a soldier, in winter quar- 
ters. Many new recruits are being added to our company, 
and the regiment. The sick and wounded who have re- 
covered are also coming back. All returning members 
and recruits are greeted as fresh fish. Our camp being 
on high ground, none can enter without being seen. At 
the call of " Fresh fish," the boys turn out and welcome all 
who come. Many questions are asked about home, as 
most of the recruits have friends in the regiment. Some 
have relations. With the returning members and the re- 
cruits gives us more men for duty, which helps to make 
duty more easy for the men, while the sergeants and cor- 
porals must be on picket duty every other night. Reli- 
gious service is conducted every Sunday, and evenings, by 
our Chaplain. The chapel is also used for a reading 
room. Tables, pen, ink, and paper for the boys who wish 
to use it for writing letters. We are the only regiment 
in this vicinity. Others are at Harper's Ferry and 
Charlestown. 

138 



' i 



January jd. Weather permitting, we have company, 
battalion drill, and dress parade. Weather very cold at 
this time. We have to lie close to the fires when off duty 
or post. Sergeants must keep awake all night. Corporals 
get sleep and rest when their reliefs are off post. 

January lOth. During the past few days we had all 
kinds of weather, starting in with a cold rain, turning to 
hail, and winding up with a heavy snow storm. Now we 
have to go through about twelve inches of snow. The 
surrounding country for miles does look gloomy enough. 
Heard bells and saw one sleigh going down the pike. 
Lieutenant Joseph P. Rockwell elected, or rather made. 
Captain of our company, C. Our Lieutenants, Merwin 
and Cowles, are still held as prisoners of war since June 
15th, 1863. We are all hoping this will be our last winter 
in the service. Our time will be out when the war is over, 
we are in for three years, or during the war. 

January 20th. Severe cold weather since the last 
date. Deep snow and plenty. The inhabitants have 
always claimed the Yankees brought the cold weather. 
Such severe winters do not come to Virginia but once in 
many years. Our regular routine of duty is, and must be, 
kept up in spite of the severe weather. It is two hours 
on duty and four off. The report of a gun calls up the 
other two reliefs. The corporal must investigate and find 
out the cause of the alarm. If more than one gun is fired, 
the camp guard reports firing on the picket line. The 
Colonel is notified. He orders the sounding of the long 
roll, calling out the regiment. Everything is kept ready 
for a sudden call in the night. We turn out very lively, 
soon in line. 

January 2^th. All quiet since the last date. I am in 
the best of health, ready for duty at any time, and for any 

139 



call. The general health of the regiment at this time is 
good. Company A ordered to Harper's Ferry for provost 
duty under command of Lieutenant Kerr. Companies 
D and I to Duffield Station on the Baltimore & Ohio 
R. R., west of Harper's Ferry. Their quarters are in 
block houses, bullet proof, about seven miles from our 
camp. Guard the railroad. 

January joth. Seven companies remain at regimen- 
tal headquarters. The change makes extra duty for the 
companies at headquarters. Five prisoners were brought 
to camp, having been captured by our pickets. They were 
sent under guard to Harper's Ferry. 

January Jlst. When off duty read, write letters, wash 
and mend my clothes. Try to keep clean and in good 
condition. Do my part handling an axe. We use up a 
whole lot of wood during this extreme cold weather. Try 
to keep as comfortable as we can. All sorts of questions 
come up for discussion. The close of the war is the most 
important. All companies do much singing during the 
evening. There are some violins and banjos in camp. 

February 1st. The Christian Commission, with head- 
quarters at Harper's Ferry, furnish the chapel tent with 
pens, ink, paper, books, magazines, and newspapers. Our 
duty remains about the same from day to day. All is 
quiet these days. Occasionally we have a visitor from 
Connecticut. Always pleased to meet and welcome them. 

February 8th. While everything is quiet with us, 
time goes on. This is my birthday, twenty years old. 
Weather cold at this time. 

February l8th. A hard snow storm greets us today. 
Those not on duty are sticking to our quarters, keeping 
comfortable, while the snow and wind howl through our 
camp. 

140 



February iQth. This morning we find eighteen 
inches of snow on the ground. Wading through the deep 
snow reminds me of a picture that I have often seen, 
Napoleon Bonaparte before Moscow. Duty must be 
attended to, no matter what the weather may be. The 
snow makes camp life very unpleasant. The heavy fall 
of snow at this time of year is a very great surprise, so the 
inhabitants report. 

February 20th. The deep snow is settling down very 
fast, weather very mild. General Seward from Martins- 
burg a visitor in camp. The commander of our brigade 
and this section of the valley. 

February 2 1st. Snow melting very fast. Must wade 
through the wet snow. Orders to fall in and to report at 
Bolivar Heights, near Harper's Ferry, a march of about 
four miles. When we arrived we were surprised to learn 
that we must witness the execution of two deserters. 
Strange that we must march so far to witness such a sad 
thing. Just before all things were ready, and in the nick 
of time, a pardon was received from President Lincoln. 
When it became known that a pardon was received there 
were a few faint cheers from some of the boys. For my 
part I was thankful that I did not have to witness the 
execution. Returned to camp late this afternoon. 

February 22d. Routed out early this morning to pre- 
pare for a review and inspection by General Crook and 
stafif. Report came to camp that Company I, at Duffield 
Station, had been attacked, but succeeded in driving the 
guerillas away. 

February 24th. Detailed for picket. Corporal in 
charge of one relief. Located about three miles from 
camp on the line of the railroad, all quiet. 

141 



February 2jth. About midnight last night we were 
aroused by sharp firing. Made us open our eyes and ears. 
Readv for any sudden call. All we could do was to listen 
and wait. Soon all became quiet. Those of us of? dut}' 
soon dropped asleep again. This morning we learned 
the cause oi the firing last night. Two scouting parties 
of the 1 2th Pennsylvania Cavalry met, each taking the 
other for the enemy. Opened fire on one another. Xo 
harm was done in the dark. It created some excitement 
on the picket line. 

March 1st. Since the last date we have been visited 
by a cold rain, hard wind, hail, snow, mud. Very dis- 
agreeable weather for armv life, but it must all be en- 
dured by soldiers. On picket dut}'. Corporal in charge 
of the outpost, about one half of a mile from the reserve 
quarters. On dur;v- rwenr\'-four hours from 3 P. M. We 
like the change from 9 A. M., the old custom. 

March 2d. Last night a shot was heard beyond our 
outpost. Could not learn the cause. It seemed to be in 
the direction of Charlestown. About nine o'clock this 
morning I received a call from Captain Kibbe, Ofiicer 
of the Guard, asked for any information that I could 
give. I could not give him any as it was beyond our out- 
post Putting a man in charge of the outpost, the Captain 
ordered me to go with him for an investigation. The 
people v/e called on had not noticed it. They became 
used to the report of a gun and did not pay any attention 
to it. At the home of a Mr. Snyder we were invited in 
and received very pleasantly. As it came time for us to 
go. as it was getting near noon, they urged us to remain 
to dinner. The invitation was accepted. The family 
consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Snyder and two young 
daughters. Mrs. Snyder was in very poor health, the 

142 



daughters doing the house work, A fine chicken dinner 
was ser\'ed for which we were ven* thankful. After 
dinner Mr. Snyder invited us out to take a look over his 
place. He was the owner of a grist and saw mill, and a 
large farm. We were treated very kindly by the whole 
family. All expressed sorrow over the war. The loca- 
tion was near Charlestown. \\'hen the time came for us 
to go. we received a ver}' cordial invitation to call again. 
We made our way back to the picket post after our very 
enjovable time and good dinner, on Sundav. March 2d. 
1865. 

At 3 P. M. we were relieved from picket duty. Made 
our way to camp with pleasant recollections of the good 
time that came to us on this Sunday on picket dutv along 
the line of the Harper's Ferry and Winchester Railroad. 

March -f-th. A camp has been located a short dis- 
tance north of ours. Reported that General Hancock will 
organize a veterans" corps at this point It will be com- 
posed of men who have been in the service and wish to 
re-enlisL All is quiet in our camp. 

March jth. While on duty out in the lots and woods, 
we see many wild animals such as foxes, fox and gray 
squirrels. Some of the boys cannot resist the temptation 
to shoot them, which they dress and boil and eat Our 
routine of dut\" is kept up. 

March Qih. All is quiet. Our regiment voted for 
governor today. Ballots sealed in envelopes, to be opened 
in Connecticut on the day of election. Commissioners 
here to receive the ballots. We hope our war governor. 
Buckingham, will be re-elected. 

March ISih. A litde excitement this morning. 
Rebel cavalry made a dash for our picket line. Regiment 
called out, soon in line. We saw the rebs going up the 



valley, running their horses. More fresh fish received, 
as we call the recruits. A muddy time in camp, and bad 
weather. 

March 14th. This morning the 131st Ohio Regiment 
located near our camp. A new regiment. Just organized. 
Real young, fine looking fellows. Hope they won't be 
obliged to see hard service, for war is a cruel thing. 

March I^th. Orders received for our regiment to 
report at Martinsburg. Must leave our winter quarters 
at Halltown. We are relieved by the 144th Indiana 
Regiment. Busy packing up, as we are to march to- 
morrow. Will pass one more night in our winter 
quarters. Time has passed very pleasant in this camp 
during the winter. 

March l6th. Routed out very early this morning. 
Soon in line and on the march, taking the road on to 
Harper's Ferry. A great surprise to us when informed 
we go by train. Soon loaded into box cars, during a cold 
rain. A few miles out on the road the train came to a 
stop. Detained by the breaking down of a bridge. Cold 
and very uncomfortable in the cars. On the road all day. 
Arrived at Martinsburg just before dark. Relieved the 
95th Ohio Regiment, taking their camp on the Winchester 
Pike, near the home of Mrs. Shults, my wash-woman, 
a fine old German lady.* Detailed for picket duty to- 
night, soon after our arrival. 

March lyth. Martinsburg. Weather clear, but very 
windy. Putting camp in order. Hoping for good 
weather. Lieutenant Merwin returned today, having 
been a prisoner of war since June 15th, 1863, Tiost of the 
time at Richmond, Va. 

* A picture of her home can be seen on pagre 330, History of the 13th Connecticut Reeitncnt, 

144 



March 20th. Pleased with change from Halltown. 
Everything quiet. We believe the war is about over. 
Crowds of rebel deserters are coming inside our lines. 
They are sick and tired of the war, believe their cause is 
lost. We send them under guard to the Provost Marshal's 
office in town. Weather permitting, we drill and have 
dress parade. Our regiment in good condition for duty. 

March 24th. The past few days have been windy, 
with a cold rain, turning to hail and snow. The wind 
howling through our camp, coming from the North 
Mountain. Winter is hanging on. Every day we are led 
to believe that the war is about over with. No enemy has 
been reported in this vicinity for a long time. Picket 
duty is kept up, 

March joth. Nothing special for the past few days. 
Daily routine is kept up. When off duty tramp through 
the country, calling at the farms, meeting the old men. 
The young men are mostly in the army, either in the 
Union or the Confederate. Religious service is held in 
the log chapel, conducted by our good Chaplain, Walker, 
assisted by Chaplains from other regiments and the 
Christian Commission. 

April 1st. Weather improving, for which we are 
thankful. Good reports come from General Grant's 
army, pushing General Lee. General Sheridan left the 
valley with his cavalry corps. Infantry left at Winches- 
ter. Great excitement over reports that come to head- 
quarters. Many visitors from town witness our dress 
parade. Boys are doing their best to make a fine appear- 
ance on parade, which takes place at 5 P. M. 

April 2d. New recruits continue to come to our regi- 
ment. Some are assigned to our company. Our regiment 
in good condition, and ready for any kind of duty. Good 
10 145 



news continues to come from the front. All are happy 
over the prospects of the war ending soon. 

April jd. Detailed for picket. Located out on out- 
post on the Tuscaror road, leading to the North Moun- 
tain, about one mile out of town. Have done picket duty 
on this road many times. At the edge of town all roads 
are barricaded and closed for the nights, to prevent a 
sudden dash from the guerillas and Confederate scouts. 
Report comes tonight that General Grant has taken Rich- 
mond and that General Lee has retreated. Good news. 

April 4th. Relieved from picket this morning. On 
reaching camp there was great rejoicing over the good 
news. Reports continue to come about General Grant's 
success. Shouting and singing, glory hallelujah on all 
sides. Citizens and soldiers cheering over the good news. 
Bands and drum corps making all the music they can. 
We are at liberty to go and come as we please. Duty 
suspended as far as can be. In and out of town as we 
please. K happy time. The Union people in town are 
keeping open house. The soldiers are made welcome. 
The glorious Yankee Army are surely in Richmond. We 
are all thankful for the good news. This summer will 
surely find us in good old Connecticut. The singing and 
cheering is continuous. 

April ^th. Orders received this morning to fall in 
without arms for a march into town and report at head- 
quarters. Surprised to hear that we were to receive four 
months pay. It was overdue. No one left in camp but 
the camp guard. We were allowed more liberty than 
ever before. We remained in town all day. I was the 
only corporal in town with the company. Many of the 
boys are on the sick list. I was ordered to receive the pay 
for those of our company in the hospital, visit the hospital 

146 



and give the boys their money. All were thankful to get 
the money and pleased to see me and were made happy 
over the good news I brought to them about General 
Grant's success in routing the enemy. Returned to camp 
late tonight. I felt that I had put in a very busy day. 
Weather damp, cool, and very cloudy. 

April 6th. A cold rain storm this morning. Nothing 
to do but try and keep comfortable. Discussing the war 
question, and what the indications are about our getting 
home. General Lee has not surrendered as yet. Perhaps 
there may be much more fighting. One question is, it may 
turn into a guerilla warfare, owing to so many mountains 
in the South. 

April Qth. Detailed for picket duty. Located out on 
Tuscaror road, in charge. One duty I had to perform 
was to examine all citizens who enter town, as the town 
is under martial law, and they must have passes to go in 
and out, which are obtained from the Provost Marshal. 
They must take the oath of allegiance to the United States. 
They can then go in and out on business. 

April lOth. The firing of heavy field guns at mid- 
night aroused everybody. Great rejoicing when we 
learned that General Lee has surrendered to our Grant. 
Crowds of people began to come to town very early to 
hear the latest news. It was hard for some to believe 
it. We hope the four years of struggling with death and 
destruction are at an end. As the people returned to their 
homes, informed me that they would again have an open 
road, and not be stopped to answer questions and show a 
pass. They won't be any more pleased about it than these 
same soldiers who are very anxious to return to our homes 
in Yankee land. This is a fine country. We are happy 
over the prospects that the war is coming to an end. 

147 



Passed a very pleasant time in charge of the picket post, 
out on the Tuscaror road. 

April I2th. Not much duty done since the last date. 
Talking and rejoicing over the events of the past few^ 
days. Orders to resume drilling. It creates opposition 
and much kicking. What's the use. The war is over 
although peace has not been declared. Our term ends 
with the close of the war. Three years, or during the war. 

April Ijth. Our happiness continues. Ten minutes 
walk from camp, towards town, is a pump where we are 
obliged to go for water. Good water. A great meeting 
place for the people and the soldiers. News of the day is 
talked over. It is known as the news pump. Newspapers 
are not very plenty. They come from Baltimore and 
Ohio. Those who are first at the pump in the morning 
bring the news and stories that can be picked up, and are 
soon circulated through camp. So we look for the morn- 
ing news from the pump. 

April 14th. Orders to clean up and prepare for a 
parade in town to celebrate the surrender of General Lee, 
and the capture of Richmond. The parade to take place 
in the afternoon. All troops in this vicinity to take a part 
in the big parade. Our company, C, color company, 
made a fine appearance in the parade, every man doing 
his best. During the parade there was great excitement, 
cheering, and rejoicing, all along the line of march. 
After the parade we were allowed our liberty for the 
rest of the day and evening. In the evening the towns- 
people illuminated the best they could under present 
conditions. Returned to camp quite late tonight, tired 
but happy. 

April I^th. Early morning news from the pump. 
Reported the assassination of our beloved President. At 

148 



first it could not be believed. I saw an orderly galloping 
into camp, going right to the Colonel's quarters. He 
brought the official report. It was soon known through 
camp. It was a great shock and cast a great gloom over 
our camp. How sudden the change. Joy turned to 
sorrow, when we were rejoicing over the prospects of 
peace and the end of the cruel war. At first it was re- 
ported that he might recover. Later report he was dead. 
We could not do anything but talk over the sad event. 
We all became angry and hated the South worse than 
ever. Thought all the leaders should be condemned to 
death. Indignation and rage was expressed alike by 
citizens and the soldiers. We wondered who could do 
such an awful thing. Later we were informed who the 
assassin was. Excitement continues in our camp as this 
sad day comes to a close. 

April lOth. Sunday. No inspection. All is quiet 
in camp. After breakfast, cleaned up, ready for service 
in the log chapel. Sermon by our Chaplain. A good 
attendance, with several visitors from town. A good 
sermon on the sad event. All is quiet, and a very sad day 
in our camp. All duties suspended for the day. Went 
for a walk. Evidence of mourning on many houses and 
public buildings, by placing crape on them. 

April igth. All duty except guard and picket sus- 
pended since the assassination of Mr. Lincoln. These 
are days of mourning. Officers wear crape on the left arm 
and on the hilts of swords for thirty days. The funeral 
takes place today in Washington. The towns-people have 
arranged for a funeral parade and service to be held in 
the Court House. Our regimental band is engaged to 
furnish the music for the procession. On the march a 
coffin was carried, making a solemn appearance as the 

149 



funeral procession marched to the cemetery where the 
coffin was buried. The whole thing was in charge of the 
towns-people. It was a very strange proceeding in the 
eyes of down-east Yankees. It was a very solemn occasion 
all through, to the burial of the coffin. 

April 20th. Weather fine. Real spring. All is quiet 
in camp. The body of the martyr President is being 
carried across the country to his home town, Springfield, 
Illinois. These are days of mourning. The sudden tak- 
ing ofiF of Mr. Lincoln is the topic of conversation in our 
camp. It is generally believed there was a conspiracy 
among the leaders of the rebellion to murder Mr. Lincoln, 
so the cry is that the leaders must be punished. 

April 2Sth. Weather good. Regular routine of duty 
is now on again. Drill, dress parade, picket, and guard. 
Not much interest taken in these duties at this time. No 
danger now from the enemy. The only real interest is 
taken in our dress parades, as we have many visitors from 
town. Confederate soldiers are now on their way home, 
all having been paroled. Halt them at the outposts, send 
a guard with them to the Provost Marshal, when they are 
allowed to proceed to their homes in Virginia and Mary- 
land. Many were glad the war was over. Some were 
very bitter. Would not admit they were beaten. We 
laughed at the poor fellows. Many having tramped for 
miles to reach home. Some shed tears when they were 
forced to admit that the war was over, and their cause 
was lost. 

April joth. Fine growing weather. The leading 
topic in camp is, when do we go home. Picket duty sus- 
pended. Camp guard kept up, and provost duty in town 
to keep order and protect government property. Many 

150 



horses and mules are corralled and guarded. This duty 
comes to our regiment. There is much that we must do 
to assist the government officers in collecting the property. 
The town has not been turned over to the civil authority 
yet, so we must do the duty of civil officers and protect 
the town, and do the duty of policemen. Guards on the 
different streets. 

May 1st. Weather fine, and we are enjoying it. Our 
company remains at camp as headquarters' guard. The 
other companies are going through surrounding towns, 
picking up all government property, and all that is col- 
lected is put in wagons and brought to this town. Every- 
thing marked U. S. must be collected and stored here. 
In time it will be sold by government officers at public 
auction. This is a fine country. Our boys are enjoying 
these collecting trips. We are all so happy over the close 
of this awful, cruel war. 

May Sth. Detailed for guard duty in town. Placed 
in charge of a rebel Major, who made claim of being 
on General Early's staff. I was informed that he was 
placed under arrest because he had broken his parole. 
Appeared on the streets of his home town, Shepardstown, 
Virginia, in full uniform, making a show of himself, and 
insulting loyal people, for which he was waiting to be 
tried by a court-martial. He was confined in a room in 
the basement of an old church. I had three men on duty 
with me, making three reliefs. Guarding him was a tire- 
some job. When night came he told me not to sit up 
all night, he would not attempt to get away. I made up 
my mind that he would not get a chance, as I would not 
take any chances with a rebel. I did my duty. Sat up all 
night and changed my reliefs every two hours. While he 

151 



was agreeable to me I formed an opinion of him. 
Thought him rather mean, but I used him well. 

May 6th. About 9 A. M. I was relieved from duty. 
Turned the prisoner over to the relief guard. The pris- 
oner asked me to shake hands with him, and thanked me 
for my kindness. Said that he had been used very kindly 
by the boys of the i8th Connecticut. After being relieved 
returned to camp. I was excused from all duty except 
dress parade. Turned into my bunk, had a good sleep and 
a fine rest. Cleaned up and took part in our dress parade. 
A fine evening. Visited among the other companies. 

May lOth. These are quiet days. Nothing special 
for the past few days. Getting all the pleasure we can 
when ofif duty. Take long walks out in the country. De- 
tailed for duty in town. Report to the Provost Marshal. 
Guards posted on the principal streets continue. Must 
keep peace by preserving order. Headquarters in the 
Court House. Duty light and easy. 

May Ilth. About midnight of last night, while I 
was in the Court House, I heard the cry of fire. Looked 
out and saw a great blaze to the south. Ran to the fire. 
It was a large barn on the Faulkner place. Watched it 
burn, as it could not damage other buildings. The Faulk- 
ners had many enemies in the neighborhood, whom he 
treated bad at the outbreak of the war. I heard Mr. 
Faulkner repeat " Poor revenge." Sometimes revenge is 
sweet. The soldiers did not have any sympathy for the 
Faulkners. Looked upon as arch traitors. Soldiers were 
placed on guard over his property at the time of the fire. 

May 20th. Our regular routine has been kept up for 
the past few days. Guard duty, drill, dress parade, Sun- 
day morning inspection. When at liberty continue to 
take long walks out into the surrounding country. Call on 

152 



the farmers. They laugh about the Yankee soldiers mak- 
ing friends with the cows. We tell them that's because we 
like milk. We found out the cows would eat hardtack. 
We fed and petted them while they were out to pasture. 
Women do the milking in this section. I heard a woman 
say that she was a good milker but the Yankees could beat 
her and milk into a canteen at that. 

May 2ist. As we have plenty of rations we trade 
with the farmers, coffee, sugar, hardtack, for butter, eggs, 
and vegetables, and some milk. The cows eat garlic 
which gives to the butter and milk a bad taste, but we 
manage to eat the stuff, if we don't really like the taste. 
We paid money for some things to the farmers. They 
were always anxious to get hold of a little ready cash. 
Some soft bread was furnished us in place of hardtack, 
but could most generally get hardtack. While we suffered 
much from hunger and thirst, we had good feed whenever 
near our base of supplies. 

Detailed for guard duty in town. Charge of the 
third relief. When off duty could get excused for one 
hour. Visited a bookstore for something to read. Sur- 
prised to find a copy of the History of Connecticut. Paid 
one dollar for it. The Waverly magazine was quite a 
favorite with the boys. Much pleasure working out the 
enigmas, and reading the short stories and the poetry. 

May 26th. At one o'clock this morning the guard 
was called out to stop a negro dance, some trouble having 
broken out, caused by outsiders. The guard must act as 
police, keep things quiet. At 9 A. M. relieved and re- 
turned to camp. 

June 1st. Fine weather. All is very quiet. The 
country has on its summer dress. Looks fine. The most 
important question with us is, home, sweet home, when 

153 



do we go. Soldier's life at this time is a dull one. Our 
only interest is our dress parades. We have many visitors 
from town. 

June 2d. Our regiment is the only one left at this 
post. Details continue to hunt and collect government 
property. Some western regiments pass through this 
town on the B. & O. R. R., bound for home, singing and 
cheering, happy. 

June jd. Still having a pleasant time at this town, 
and continue our walks through the country. Berries and 
cherries are beginning to ripen. Allowed to help our- 
selves with all we can eat, as we do much work for the 
farmers, helping at various kinds of work. Stores are 
opening up in town, as are also all the churches. Build- 
ings are in bad condition, the result of the four years of 
the war. 

June Sth. The anniversary of the battle of Piedmont. 
Thank God the cruel war is over. Playing ball, pitching 
quoits, helping the farmers, is the way we pass the time 
while waiting for orders to be mustered out. We have 
many friends in this town and vicinity. Helping in 
various kinds of work and also in the churches. 

June I^th. Nothing special has taken place since 
the last date. Public auction in town today. All govern- 
ment property must be sold. An agent here in charge. 
Horses, mules, saddles, wagons, ambulances. Some of 
our company have been on duty and in charge of the 
corral for several days. Will be glad to see the thing 
closed up. Some of the horses and mules were kickers, 
as well as some of our boys, who did not like that kind 
of work. 

June 20th. By the disposal of all the government 
property our duty seems to come to an end. Nothing 

154 



more for us to do. We may now be ordered home, or to 
some other point for duty. We are all anxious to get 
home. 

June 2jd. Our Colonel, Henry Peale, in command 
of this post. Headquarters in town. Our regiment 
ordered into town for a dress parade at 5 P. M., at the 
public square in front of headquarters. Our service in 
the army is no doubt about over with. We shall be glad 
to leave old Virginia for good old Connecticut. 

June 24th. Yesterday afternoon our regiment formed 
at camp, marched into town. Line was formed fronting 
headquarters, for dress parade and review by our Colonel. 
To our great surprise, sitting on the veranda at the house 
used for headquarters, with Colonel Peale, was the arch- 
traitor, Charles J. Faulkner, hated by the Union people 
and despised by the soldiers. The home in this town was 
reported to be a great resort for spies. Much information 
went from that home, south. On the march back to camp 
the boys were mad through and through. Did not want 
to be paraded and reviewed by a mean rebel like Faulkner 
and family. 

June 2^th. Orders received to prepare for muster- 
out. Details have been made from each company to help 
make out the muster-out papers. The companies that 
were out of town on duty, ordered to report at regimental 
quarters. All duties given up. Peace and quiet reigns 
in town and through the country. 

June 26th. A bright Sunday morning. Everybody 
happy. Our last day in camp at Martinsburg, the 
Shenandoah Valley, where we have seen and passed 
through hard service during the past three years. As the 
time draws near we are anxious to go home, but there is 
somewhat of a feeling of sadness on leaving old Martins- 

155 



burg, where we have made many friends. Our camp is 
about deserted. A few men remain on guard in charge of 
the camp. Some of the boys are in town visiting, and 
attending church. Others are tramping through the 
country, bidding good-bye to the farmers and taking a 
look at the fine scenery and country. We must all report 
back to camp in time for our last dress parade, at 5 P. M. 
At our dress parade was a large attendance of people from 
town. A short religious service was held by our Chap- 
lain, Rev. Wm. C. Walker. It was made somewhat 
solemn by the good man, as the journey home was laid 
before us. Orders were also read to be ready to leave 
camp early on the morrow, at 5 A. M. This is a happy 
evening in camp. Singing all through the camp. 

June 2yth. Taps sounded later than usual last night. 
When the lights were put out we could not sleep for joy, 
as we were all so happy over the prospect of going home. 
I cannot write and do justice to those happy hours. Will 
remain with me as long as memory lasts. The hymns 
heard mostly last night were " Oh Happy Day " and 
" We are going home, to die no more." Everybody can 
sing at this time if they never can again. Reveille 
sounded very early this morning, for the last time at 
Martinsburg. Broke camp very early this morning. In 
line, waiting for orders to march. This is a fine morning. 
We shall soon be homeward bound. When orders were 
given to march great excitement prevailed. Cheers and 
shouting as we marched along, on through the town. The 
waving of flags, handkerchiefs, and " Good-bye boys " 
from the towns-people. On reaching the depot it did not 
take us very long to board the train, a gay and happy 
crowd. I was soon on top of a car, where I enjoyed 
riding when the weather would permit. In this section 

156 



we always rode in box cars. The train left about 7 A. M., 
with cheers and shouting to and from old Martinsburg 
friends. The train soon rounded a curve and that scene 
was closed forever. We knew this railroad and country, 
having been over it a number of times by rail, and march- 
ing through it, during our service in the Shenandoah 
Valley. About 10 A. M. we arrived at Harper's Ferry. 
Soon out of the cars and in line ready to march. Passed 
through Shenandoah Street. Entering an open lot, close 
in town, came to a halt stacked arms. Must remam here 
until we are mustered out of the United States service. 
When we first entered Virginia, near three years ago, at 
Harper's Ferry, our first stopping place was this very 
same place, or lot, where we are now waiting to be 
mustered out. Late this afternoon we were mustered out. 
Expect to go on board of train tonight, homeward bound. 
June 28th. Harper's Ferry. A fine morning. Early 
on board train, waiting for it to move. At 8 A. M. the 
train began to move slowly along the banks of the Shenan- 
doah River, on over the iron bridge across the Potomac 
River, into Maryland. The cheering was loud, with 
shouts of "Good-bye old Virginia." The cheering 
echoed and re-echoed between the mountains of Mary- 
land and Virginia. I knew all the points of interest in this 
vicinity. We are in passenger cars, running along the 
banks of the Potomac River. At the Point of Rocks, 
about ten miles from Harper's Ferry, the road turns to the 
left, headed to the north. At this point we bid farewell to 
the old Potomac. No more picket duty along its banks in 
all kinds of weather, watching for the enemy, and looking 
at the turkey buzzards as they go sailing through the air. 
Many times have I waded the old Potomac, swam in its 
water drank it, made cofifee, fished in it. When clear its 

157 



waters appeared blue, or yellow from the storms. Either 
blue or yellow we were obliged to use it and make the 
best of it. 

The country looked fine with its summer dress on, as 
we passed through it. Arrived in Baltimore this after- 
noon. Marched from the Camden Street station, across 
the city to the Philadelphia Railroad station. Passed 
through Pratt Street, the point where the 6th Massachu- 
setts Regiment was attacked in April 1861. Soon on 
board train where hilarity continued. No one allowed 
to go to sleep. All are in good spirits and very happy as 
we go speeding on towards Philadelphia, bound for home. 

June 2gth. After an all-night's ride we arrived in 
Philadelphia early this morning. Left the cars, taking 
up the line of march, on through the city. Stopped at 
the refreshment rooms of the Cooper Shop, when a good 
breakfast was served by the good people of the city. 
Many soldiers will remember the Cooper Shop refresh- 
ment rooms at Philadelphia. After breakfast again on 
the march through the city, going on board a ferry-boat, 
and like Washington we crossed the Delaware River, to 
Camden and Amboy Railroad station, boarding a train 
for South Amboy, so we were informed. Leaving Cam- 
den, our journey was a continuous ovation by the people 
along the railroad line through Jersey. Cheers, waving 
flags. Cities and villages had erected arches with 
" Welcome home to our soldier boys." Whenever the 
train would stop people came with refreshments. They 
knew the boys were ever ready to eat the good things. 
The journey across the state of New Jersey was a grand 
reception. Through a fine country. It was a happy 
time, and nothing happened to mar the pleasure of the 
journey. It was a very happy time. Arrived at Amboy 

158 



all right. It was a great port for coal, an interesting 
sight for us, never having seen so much coal at any one 
time. Here we left the cars. After a short march went 
on board a government transport, bound for New York 
City. The journey on boat was very pleasant and en- 
joyed. The trip was along the south side of Staten 
Island, on through the narrows between Long Island 
and Staten Island, passing Forts Hamilton and Wads- 
worth. Large camps were located at the forts. Cheers 
greeted us as we passed on to the city, landing at the 
Battery, where the trip ended. At Castle Garden we 
were served with rations, after which we marched to 
Peck Slip, along South Street, boarding the steamer 
Granite State, bound for Hartford. A disappointment 
to us, as we had expected to land at Norwich, our home 
town, from which point we left on going to the war. 
We were used to disappointments and got out of the trip 
through the East River all the enjoyment we could. 
Long after dark we lay down on the decks for a little 
sleep and rest, that we needed very much. We knew 
that in the night we would be sailing up the Connecti- 
cut River. The evening was fine, and the steamboat 
had on board a happy crowd. 

June JOth. Very early this fine June morning our 
fife and drum corps went to the uppermost deck and beat 
the reveille, and played at all the river landings as the 
boat proceeded on up the river. It made good time, 
landing at Hartford about 7 o'clock, after a very pleasant 
journey from Martinsburg, West Virginia. 

After we landed people began to come to the dock. 
After a time a detachment of the Hartford City Guard 
came to the dock as an escort. The regiment formed and 
with the escort, marched up State Street, thence up Main, 

159 



countermarching to the State Capitol on Central Row, 
where Governor Buckingham, members of the legisla- 
ture, and a few leading citizens, welcomed us home, and 
extended the thanks of the state for our patriotism and 
service. After the welcome and the addresses, breakfast 
was served at the hotels, our company going to the City 
Hotel. In the afternoon, regiment formed, marched out 
Park Street to a camp. Late in the afternoon we were 
allowed to go to our homes and remain over July 4th. 
Report back on the 6th for final discharge. Norwich. 
Home again. 

July 1st. Arrived home last night at 9 o'clock. 
Great was the welcome home. Crowds were in waiting 
to receive us. Hearts full of thanksgiving that we were 
permitted to return to good old Connecticut. Soon made 
our way to our various homes. 

July 4th. A great parade and reception to our regi- 
ment. The welcome home was a grand time. During the 
march, on the parade, many people were in tears, and 
we knew the reason why. Their husbands and boys did 
not come home. While we were happy we did not forget 
the good fellows and the homes that contained a vacant 
chair. It was a great day in old Norwich. A Fourth 
that cannot be forgotten by those who participated in the 
parade. It was the last parade of the Eighteenth Regi- 
ment, Connecticut Volunteers. Our guns and equipments 
were laid aside. No more cruel war for us. 

July 6th. Returned to Hartford to receive our final 
discharge. Waiting. Reported we must pass one more 
night in camp. We won't mind a little thing like that. 
Tomorrow we will go free. 

July yth. Up early this morning. Waiting for our 
turn to come for our pay and discharge. 

160 



July Jih, 1863. 
The Eighteenth Regiment, Connecticut Volunteers, 
disbanded. Its members free citizens again. The separa- 
tion was somewhat sad. We were happy that the end 
had come. Now came the last good-bye, as we grasped 
each other by the hand, looking into each other's face, 
sad but happy. Our soldier life had come to an end. No 
more picket and guard duty. No more marching by day 
and night in all kinds of weather. No more camp life, 
sleeping on the ground in all kinds of weather. No more 
the long roll to call us out in the night. No more the 
danger from battle, sickness, or suffering from hunger 
and thirst. These things all helped to make the life of a 
soldier a very serious one. Left Hartford at 6 P. M. 
bound for Norwich, singing " Oh Happy Day." 



11 161 



I served with the 3d Corps, Army of the Potomac, in 
the campaign in western Maryland, following the battle 
of Gettysburg, up to July 20th, 1863. 

Membership in our company, C, on leaving home 

for the war 98 

Recruits added 22 



Total 1 20 

Killed in battle, died from wounds and disease and 

in rebel prison 20 

Wounded 30 

In prison during our service 80 

Some were taken prisoner twice. A few members 
were held prisoners for two years and died in Anderson- 
ville. 

Passed through the following battles and skirmishes. 

1863 

June 13, 14, 15, Winchester, Va. 

15, Summit Point, Va. 

16, Carter's Farm, near Winchester, Va. 
July Boonsborough, Md. 

Falling Waters, Va. 

1864. 
May 15, New Market, Va. 
June 3, Harrisonburg, Va. 

162 



June 5, Piedmont, Va. 

5, Mt. Crawford, Va. 
II, Lexington, Va. 

14, Buchanan, Va. 

15, Liberty, Va. 

17, Quaker Church, Va., near Lynchburg. 

18, Lynchburg, Va. 
21, Salem, Va. 

July 10, Hedgersville, Va. 
18, Snickers Ford, Va. 

23, Kearnstown, Va. 

24, Kearnstown, Va. 

24, Winchester, Va. 

25, Martinsburg, Va. 
August II, Stoney Point, Va. 

12, Middletown, Va. 

12, Cedar Creek, Va. 

13, Hupp's Hill, Va. 
21, Opequon, Va. 

21, Smithfield, Va. 

22, Charlestown, Va. 
22-26, Halltown, Va. 

September 3, Berryville, Va. Our last real battle. 

During the campaign of 1864, from May ist to 
November ist, the i8th Regiment, Connecticut Volun- 
teers, are credited with having marched over thirteen 
hundred miles, and I marched every step of it. Did not 
lose an hour's duty. 



163 



